Participants Wanted: Investigation into use of FAR UVC light for disinfecting spaces
The School of Physics and Astronomy invite you to participate in a research project to investigate the effects of a new ultraviolet technology, called Far-UVC, on eyes.
Far-UVC is known to be effective at inactivating viruses (including COVID-19) and other pathogens, including drug-resistant bacteria on surfaces and in the air. Early research also suggests Far-UVC doesn’t cause any significant or long-lasting damage the skin or eyes. It therefore has the potential to be used to disinfect the air in shared spaces (e.g. offices, shops, cafes). However, more research is needed to confirm the safety of this technology.
We are investigating whether Far-UVC light exposure causes eye irritation. The volunteers will spend approximately seven hours for each of 3 days in a room illuminated by a Far-UVC lamp or a dummy lamp in St Andrews. The eye symptoms will be assessed using a questionnaire. Most of the time, the volunteers are free to perform any task they may wish in an office type environment. Refreshments and lunch will be provided. The volunteers will be reimbursed £450 for the three days they attend for their inconvenience.
If you are interested, please get in contact using the details below.
Ethical Approval Code: MD15737
Contact Details and researchers: Obaid Kousha ([email protected]) and Kenneth Wood ([email protected])