Although any form of radiation can be hazardous, Ultraviolet (UV) light brings with it a plethora of health risks. Used in daily applications across various industries, it may cause irreparable damage. Let us look at the subcategories of the UV spectrum and understand their effects on human health.

UV spectrum and its subcategories

UVA

Characterized by a long wavelength and also known as black light or soft UV, UVA rays are widely used in tanning beds and lamps such as backlights. They are considered to be the least harmful among the three subcategories of the UV spectrum due to their inability to penetrate deep into the skin. Exposure to UVA rays causes wrinkles, sun spots, premature ageing, and potentially some forms of skin cancer.

UVB

A medium-wave UV light, UVB can reach the outer surface of the skin to potentially cause cancer as well as skin burns. Despite reaching only the upper layers of the skin, it may be quite damaging. UVB rays are commercially used for curing inks, fluorescent effects, and UV lamps employed in phototherapy.

UVC

UVC rays, with the shortest wavelength, are the most harmful among the three subcategories of the UV spectrum and cause severe skin burns and eye injuries (photokeratitis). They are commonly used in welding torches, mercury lamps, and germicidal lights.

Brandenburg uses UVA light for their pest management solutions, keeping in mind human health and food safety. The air sterilisation solutions also use UVC-based Germicidal Technology to eradicate microorganisms.

To know more, visit:

https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/tanning/ultraviolet-uv-radiation