Since we joined forces with Selectronic, we have expanded our LED portfolio to include infrared (IR) LEDs and UV LEDs, among others. Both these technologies are making headlines right now as potential allies in our fight against COVID-19.
Proximity sensing and gesture sensing using IR LEDs can help with social distancing and enable contactless interactions with various types of equipment.
On the other hand, UV-C radiation – the shortest group of wavelengths in the ultraviolet spectrum – has valuable virucidal properties. UV-C irradiation is used in various applications for sterilisation and disinfection and has been shown to be effective against known coronaviruses such as SARS. But let’s think carefully before going full-speed ahead.
Are UV LEDs Safe to Use?
The energy in UV-C is harmful to organic tissue in general, so we must give due consideration to safety. If people are likely to be in the vicinity when UV-C radiation is active, exposed skin may be affected. If UV-C reaches more delicate areas, by entering the eye, for example, there is potential for serious damage. In addition to protecting users and any others who may be nearby, equipment vendors need to be able to protect themselves by demonstrating that risks have been duly considered. The design, user instructions, and any stipulated safety precautions must be adequate to ensure acceptable safety.
Can protection against unintended exposure to UV light be designed in?
It may not be feasible to provide complete protection against unintended exposure to UV light by incorporating design features alone. Reflections, for example, can be practically impossible to predict in an uncontrolled environment such as at an ATM terminal or when using a POS machine or door-entry system. A shiny surface such as a bezel or the face of a user’s wristwatch or smartphone could reflect radiation in almost any direction. Additional shielding, or a cover, may be needed, for example, or safety protocols to exclude any humans from the area before UV-C emitters can be turned on.
How Can We Design Safely and Effectively with UV LEDs?
When creating new products for today’s world, you can take advantage of our expertise in these LED technologies in a wide variety of user-facing equipment deployed in all types of environments, from the home, to the office, factory, or street level. We can help you ensure your next products are not only safe for users but will also protect the value of your brand.
How Else Can We Innovate with LEDs?
LEDs are usually chosen for their visual properties and power savings, such as in optimised energy-efficient lighting, backlights and crisp, brightly lit LED displays that can be seen clearly even in bright sunlight.
