The rise of airborne threats from pathogens means infection control must be taken seriously. With the World Health Organisation (WHO) broadening its definition for airborne diseases, Barry Hobday (pictured), Managing Director of MAPUK, explores how and why filterless UVC technology emerges as a promising solution to bolster defences against the evolving challenges of new health threats.
Whooping cough is spreading at an alarming rate in the UK, with almost 3,000 cases recorded at the last count. As a result, GPs are reinforcing the use of masks within surgeries in an attempt to minimise the impact of this already fatal outbreak. This coincides with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) redefinition of airborne pathogens, with a refined focus on exposure risk and disease severity following extensive consultations with public health experts worldwide.
Last year’s inaugural WHO Indoor Air Conference has also shown us that the public conversation on clean air is fundamentally changing, working to drive significant change in the ventilation industry. Yet, despite this, short-term attempts to curb the spread of airborne pathogens offer little longevity. To prevent future pandemics akin to COVID-19, we must explore long-term solutions to ensure ‘clean’ indoor air and to bolster defences against the evolving challenges of airborne pathogens.
The impact of insufficient infection control
To put it simply, the risk of infection from viruses and bacteria indoors increases if there is not a sufficient supply of fresh air that has been treated to remove pathogens, leading to billions of pounds being spent annually to manage healthcare-associated infections.
For example, Department for Education data shows that illness absence in schools more than doubled between 2021 and 2023. On top of this, a surge in sick days across the workplace is estimated to cost the British economy £66bn by 2030, with the number of working days lost to sickness on track to more than double over the same timeframe.
To begin to combat these problems, one of the most common solutions used by healthcare providers is filtered ventilation systems, such as HEPA filters, yet these are a false economy. Filtered HEPA products may offer cheaper upfront costs, but maintenance and ongoing filter replacement can often make such systems more expensive (and less effective) in the long term.
On top of this, a large number of the filters within existing systems cannot be recycled. These filters go to landfills, causing challenges for both the environment and the safeguarding of those carrying out regular maintenance and disposal due to cross-contamination.
Emerging technologies: filterless UVC ventilation
As an alternative, filterless UVC ventilation is a promising solution. This technology, which employs ultraviolet light to inactivate microorganisms, offers a vital layer of defence. The principle behind UVC sterilisation is not new; it has been used effectively in medical sanitation and water treatment for decades. However, integrating this technology into HVAC systems is an underutilised opportunity to mitigate airborne transmission risks across the built environment – from schools and offices to hospitals and homes.
Recent advances in technology mean some UVC systems are now filterless, providing continuous, passive disinfection as air circulates and, significantly reducing the labour and cost associated with maintenance. Besides neutralising pathogens, UVC technology can also help reduce the prevalence of mould and other allergens within indoor spaces, contributing to better overall air quality and health outcomes.
The path forward
As we continue to face the rising threat of airborne pathogens and the potential for new pandemics, we need to think beyond soap, disinfectants and face masks. It is clear that a new approach is essential. And, with the WHO’s evolving definition of airborne pathogens, there is a real opportunity for the ventilation industry to lead the way and advocate for the use of innovative technology as a critical element.
It is time to recognise filterless UVC sterilisation as a new method for achieving clean indoor air across the built environment. This technology promises to help safeguard us against the invisible threats of the future and represents a key step in a multifaceted approach to battling airborne diseases. Our commitment to health and safety must evolve with the challenges we face and embracing advanced ventilation solutions is crucial in this ongoing effort.
