Use of Germicidal Lamps in Childcare Facilities: Safety Measures and Recommendations

• Introduction
• What types of irradiators are there?
• What criteria should be considered when choosing an irradiator for a preschool facility?
• Safety precautions and usage recommendations
• Safe usage rules
• Why choose Bactosfera products

During seasonal outbreaks of flu and acute respiratory viral infections, young children are especially vulnerable to viruses, particularly in environments where they are in close contact with sick peers. Unfortunately, not all parents act responsibly regarding the health of others: sometimes, a child who has not fully recovered or is just beginning to show symptoms is brought to kindergarten. Despite feeling unwell, children actively interact, which leads to the rapid spread of infections. Even if your child is completely healthy, there is still a risk of infection — after all, no educator, no matter how attentive, can monitor every interaction.

It is, unfortunately, impossible to completely eliminate contact with sick children — such situations will always occur. While physical activity and hardening do strengthen the immune system, they do not guarantee complete protection. The optimal solution is to install a germicidal irradiator in the kindergarten room. These devices effectively reduce the number of pathogenic microorganisms in the air and on surfaces, thereby lowering the risk of mass infections.

What types of irradiators are there?

All irradiators are divided into two types: quartz and germicidal. Both eliminate harmful microbes using ultraviolet light, but they have some differences.

1. Quartz lamps emit not only UV light but also ozone, which is harmful when inhaled. It is prohibited to stay in the room while they are operating, and ventilation is required afterward. This makes them less convenient for use in kindergartens.
2. Germicidal lamps are safer: their bulbs do not emit ozone. However, even with these, it is recommended to leave the room during operation. These devices come in two types:

• Open-type (like regular lamps) — disinfect air and surfaces directly but need to be moved around the room for effective coverage.
• Closed-type (recirculators) — circulate air through a UV chamber inside the device. Closed-type devices can be used in the presence of people without interrupting activities.

Both types effectively destroy microbes, but for children's institutions, recirculators are more often recommended — they are safe, quiet, and convenient. 

What criteria should be considered when choosing an irradiator for a preschool facility?

In addition to the type of device, several key parameters should be considered when choosing a recirculator:

• Power. For hallways and passage areas, devices with at least 100W are recommended. For small rooms, a device with lower power is sufficient.
• Performance. Measured in cubic meters per hour, this indicator determines the air purification speed. Consult with a sales specialist to find a device suitable for the room size and the number of occupants.
• Installation method. Floor-standing, wall-mounted, and mobile versions are available. Devices are mounted using straps or screws — choose the method most convenient for you.
• Lamp lifespan. On average, UV lamps last 8,000–10,000 hours, allowing the device to be used for several years without replacement.

Today, it is easy to purchase a germicidal lamp for kindergartens and other preschool institutions. These devices have proven effective in reducing the risk of viral and bacterial diseases in children.

Safety precautions and usage recommendations

To ensure that these devices provide only benefits and do not cause harm, it is extremely important to follow all safety precautions and operating instructions. Only individuals over the age of 18, who have no medical contraindications and have received proper training on the device’s structure and operating principles, are allowed to use germicidal irradiators. This is necessary to avoid injuries and prevent putting others at risk.

Improper use of irradiators can lead to serious problems: eye and skin inflammation due to direct UV exposure, ozone poisoning (associated with quartz lamps), and mercury vapor hazards.

Safe usage rules:

1. Follow the instructions. All actions must comply with the recommendations in the technical passport and user manual for the specific model.
2. Clean only when unplugged. Lamp bulbs and reflectors should be regularly wiped from dust, but only when the device is disconnected from the power supply.
3. Monitor ozone levels. If you smell ozone — immediately turn off the irradiator, evacuate people from the room, and ensure ventilation. Then, measure the ozone concentration. If it exceeds the permissible level — stop using the device and replace the ozone-generating lamps.
4. Install warning signals. Open-type irradiators must be switched on using separate switches located outside the room. A warning sign must be posted above the entrance door: “Do not enter! Danger! UV disinfection in progress!” or something similar.
5. Check lamp condition. If the lamp malfunctions (e.g., does not turn on) — it must be immediately disconnected and replaced.
6. Dispose of used lamps properly. All expired or broken germicidal lamps must be handed over to a responsible person for proper disposal, as they contain mercury.
7. Log malfunctions. Found a problem? Immediately disconnect the device, log the issue in the maintenance journal, and notify the responsible person. Usage is allowed only after the issue is fixed and an entry is made by a specialist.

Rooms with irradiators must be equipped with supply and exhaust ventilation and have the ability to ventilate through windows.

Following these rules allows for the safe and effective use of germicidal irradiators, especially in critical environments like kindergartens. 

Why choose Bactosfera products

On the website bactosfera.ua, you will find high-quality and durable equipment for effective disinfection and protection against pathogenic microorganisms. The catalog includes a wide selection of germicidal and quartz lamps, as well as recirculators — for home, office, healthcare facilities, and kindergartens. Company specialists will help you choose the best solution for your needs, advise on device specifications, and explain how to use them safely and correctly.