Using Ultraviolet A to Check Inanimate Objects for Thorough Cleanliness during COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Introduction: Clean surroundings present lesser chances of catching Novel Coronavirus. Ultraviolet A (UVA, black light) flashlights can reveal things which the eye may miss but hardly anything is documented on the internet about UV and Covid-19 Pandemic when it comes to hygiene of inanimate objects. This report explores how one can detect uncleanliness using a UV flashlight. The formulated hypothesis questions several scenarios when this gadget could prove useful. Examples include: schools, workplace, childcare centres, bars, restaurants, hotels, public restrooms, hospitals, elderly homes, public transport and items like gloves and stretchers. Materials and methods: A clean ceramic bathroom tile was selected and photographed. UVA was emitted on the same tile using a UV flashlight and at the same time a small part was cleaned with a single stroke of a wet wipe and photographed again. External light was undimmed. Results: On comparison, the tile revealed that it was not clean enough because fluorescent green streaks were visible. A cleaner stripe was made after just one stroke with a wet wipe. Another observation showed that tile spacing can be problematic when cleaning. Conclusion: Despite some limitations, a UV flashlight may be useful for the visual monitoring of cleaning completion on high touch surfaces.