Signify (Euronext: LIGHT), the world leader in lighting, has installed 280 Philips UV-C disinfection upper air luminaires at 40 branches of Slovakian drugstore chain DM, providing its customers and staff with an additional level of protection.
The installations are part of a pilot phase that includes stores in Bratislava and the surrounding area, with other branches to follow soon. During the next phase of the project, DM also plans to install Philips UV-C disinfection upper air devices in the chain’s facilities for employees and the warehouse.
“I visit DM stores regularly due to their varied assortment. Now that we must pay more attention to our health and protect our loved ones, I am very pleased with the new installation of Philips UV-C disinfection lights in their stores. It provides me with a bit of peace of mind while shopping, knowing that they did their best to protect their clients,” said Michaela Dobšovičová, dm customer from Bratislava.
UV-C is a well-established method of disinfection, used to prevent the spread of diseases by disinfecting air, water and surfaces. UV-C breaks down the DNA or RNA of microorganisms including viruses and bacteria, rendering them harmless. In laboratory testing, Signify’s UV-C light sources reduced SARS-CoV-2 virus infectivity on a surface to below detectable levels in as few as 9 seconds.
How does UV-C disinfection at the dm stores work?
Philips UV-C disinfection upper air luminaires are installed in individual stores of the dm chain. The disinfection upper air luminaires can be used with people in the store, as they are installed at a height which, in combination with shielding and optics, prevents exposure to the UV-C light source. Air in the upper part of the store is constantly disinfected using UV-C irradiation and natural convection of airflow in the room. In this way, the maximum volume of air is disinfected, while at the same time safety is ensured and shoppers can continue to find the products on their list.
UV-C disinfection upper air luminaires will also be installed in the meeting rooms of the company's offices. Currently, one meeting room is already equipped with such a UV-C device.
“We’re happy with the installation of upper air luminaires at yet another retailer, as this illustrates the vast potential for additional protection measures in this market segment,” said Harsh Chitale, Division Leader Digital Solutions at Signify. “It is one of the many places where UV-C dinsinfection lighting can have a meaningful contribution, now and in the future.”
For more than 35 years, Signify has been at the forefront of UV technology, and has a proven track record of innovation and strong application expertise in UV-C lighting. Signify’s UV-C lighting is designed, installed, and used according to the product-specific safety instructions, and manufactured using well-controlled industrial processes. UV-C light should always be used by professionals in accordance with the safety requirements and instructions to avoid humans and animals from being exposed to it since it can damage their skin and eyes.
