Frequently Asked Questions

Covid-19 Pandemic

The following questions have all been received during the 2020 Coronavirus pandemic regarding germicidal ultraviolet (UV-C) disinfection and the role that Oxira units can play in safeguarding employees and customers.

Safety

Unlike some UVC products on the market , the OXIRA products have been subjected to international standards for electrical safety testing and has just completed UVC safety and biological effectiveness test at a leading UK govern+ment approved test house.  The OXIRA product are Risk Class 0 , in other words there is Zero risk of skin burn and eye damage, therefore safe to use in any situation.  The compact design and UVC technology results in a proven 99% effectiveness against virus (including Covid, SARS and the Flu), bacterium, mold and fugus, and has a long history in healthcare air purification.  The OXIRA is powered with a certified 12v power supply to further enhance the safety of the product.

COVID FAQs – Questions & Answers

Q1: What Ultraviolet Disinfection System would you recommend for a Restaurant?

A1: The Sentry UV-C system is great for occupied spaces with back ground noise, however the Nocturne offers a quitter fan and gentle airflow for near customer use.  The Ozone / XN model is suitable for kitchen areas but only during non-working times controlled by switching during the day or in storage rooms. A typical set up would be Nocturne units in the customer seating area and Sentry units at the the front of house, kitchen and service area, whilst the XN Ozone model is used in storage areas and over night in the kitchen to remove odours and purify the air. We can tailor a solution to meet your needs and budget to offer the best ultraviolet disinfection product for your restaurant.

Q2: Is there an Ultraviolet option to disinfect my Home and protect my Family?

A2: The Nocturne model offers a quiet and unobtrusive solution for air purification within living spaces and sleeping areas.  In areas of back ground noise  such as a kitchen the Sentry model offers addition flow rate.  The fan and airflow noise is similar to a PC cooling fan. The XN / Ozone model is not recommend for living areas or areas with high people traffic, however, it can be used in ventilated storage areas. We can help to provide the best solution for your family protection.  The use of our 12V in-car adaptor allows units to be used in your car or vehicle, offering protection whilst on the move.

Q3: What Ultraviolet Disinfection Systems are best to help me sanitize my Hair Salon?

A3: The Sentry model with its wall mounting allows for each of the wash and styling areas to have separate units supplying locally purified air.  Not only does this protect your staff and customers, it covers the area with clean air so that you can sense the freshness.  Switching between Nocturne and XN / Ozone units allows sun beds, tanning and massage areas to have purified air when customer and staff are in the area and then the XN / Ozone unit removes odours and purifies the air between treatments. We sell a range of timers and automatic switch devices to suit your every need – please contact us for more information.

Q4: Can I utilize an Ultraviolet Disinfection System in my Fitness Center / Dance Studio / Spa / Yoga Studio / Physical Therapy Clinic?

A4: These industries along with healthcare are all major uses for Oxira air neutralising units. The Nocturne model offers low noise and local air purification.  Using a stand – available from Oxira.co.uk for an additional charge – it can sit next to your excise area, whilst the more powerful Sentry model can be mounted on the equipment or wall mounted above the equipment. This Oxira solution has been implement in some of the leading international premium health and fitness chains. The XN / Ozone is used in changing rooms and for odour and air purification over night, when the areas are unoccupied.   A typical set up would be Sentry units at reception and general open spaces with mounted units on the equipment and walls and Nocturne units used for quieter areas.  The XN / Ozone units used in the locker room area and overnight to remove odours and make the gym feel fresh in the morning.

Q5: Which models would you recommend for a Dental Office?

A5: The Sentry model is ideal for a dental office, for both waiting room and clinical setting.  If a low noise level solution is required then the Nocturne model is the perfect solution.  The Oxira, is not only effective against Covid, but any airborne virus, bacteria or fungus, reducing risk to both staff and customers. The Oxira is especially suitable for consulting rooms with area conditioning and often closed doors.  Air conditioning units can regulate temperature and humidity but they do not always control airborne infections. The design of Oxira units allows them to be mounted on over-head inspection lights, workstations and walls. A typical set-up would be Sentry units at the front desk and waiting room areas and Nocturne units in  consultation rooms.

Q6: Is Ultraviolet Light a good option for disinfecting our schools?

A6:  UV-C is ideal for air purification in any educational setting. With no chemical or by products it offers the perfect solution.  UV-C is basically sunlight. The Sentry model is paricularly suited for classrooms, corridors, canteens and open spaces while the Nocturne model is ideal for study areas.  The desk stand and small profile are ideal for staff to have their own unit, which they could take from room to room. Nocturne units can sit on the student or teachers desk offering protection to both students and staff. We can tailor a solution to meet your needs. The stainless steel versions offer the option of having the school or university logo etched on the surface for ease of identification. The units can be fitted with security system to prevent removal.

Q7: My Doctor / Chiropractor Office is opening back up soon, which Ultraviolet Disinfection Systems would you recommend?

A7: Both Sentry and Nocturne models are widely used in global healthcare environments. They are ideal for any Healthcare setting for both reception, waiting and consultancy rooms. If a low noise level is required then the Nocturne is the perfect solution.  Oxira units are not only effective against Covid, but any airborne virus, bacteria or fungus, reducing risk to staff and patients / customers. The Oxira is especially suitable for consulting rooms with air conditioning and often closed doors.  Whereas air conditioning units can regulate temperature and humidity, they do not always control airborne infections. The design of the Oxira allow for the wall or desk mounting, the stainless steel versions offer a clinic look with an easy clean surface, whilst the grey version offer an unobtrusive colouring that blends easily into most backgrounds.  Typical set up would be Sentry units for the front desk and waiting room and Nocturne units in the consultancy rooms.

Q8: What is the best type of Ultraviolet Disinfection for a Funeral Home / Embalming Facility?

A8:  The XN / Ozone model offers odour reduction as well as air purification.  The levels of Ozone are low and will quickly disperse. However, they are not recommend to be use in enclosed spaces when staff are in operation but to be used on a timer for out of hours use when staff are not present. The Oxira not only reduces Covid but all airborne biological infections, mold and fungus. Sentry Oxiras can be mounted next to the working area / zone to reduce the risk of infection transfer. Using Oxira units does not remove the need for good health and safety practices. The Nocturne model is better suited to the Funeral Home due to the quiet running.

Q9: Can you use Ultraviolet Light to disinfect people?

A9: UV-C can damage skin and the eyes, as the Oxira UV-C is completely encased it is not recommend for surface defection. The devices should not be disassembled and the bulb exposed whilst turned on. Doing so will invalidate the warranty.

Q10: What Ultraviolet Disinfection System would you recommend for Public Restrooms?

A10: The Sentry model can be wall mount at near ceiling height over a cubical.  Timed switching of the XN / Ozone model for when people are absent can be used to reduce odours and purifies without Ozone saturation. We offer a range of timers and automatic switching to allow optimum solution for your particular need. The Oxira is not designed for situations where is it likely to get wet, therefore any mounting configuration should ensure that the device does not get splashed.

Q11: We’re thinking about Ultraviolet Disinfection as an option for our Fire Department. Which type of systems would you recommend?

A11: The Sentry model offers purification of locker rooms, common rooms, canteens and general use areas.  Whilst the Nocturne model is better suited for call centre and briefing rooms. With use of a in-car 12V adaptor Fire Engine and Emergency Vehicles can be provided with a purified cabin to protect fire fighters, emergency staff and drivers. The XN / Ozone model can be used to disinfect the cabin between use.  The XN / Ozone model should not be used whilst the vehicle is in use.

Q13 : We’re thinking about Ultraviolet Disinfection as an option for our Police Station. Which type of systems would you recommend?

A13: The Sentry model offers purification of holding areas, locker rooms, common rooms, canteens and general use areas.  The Nocturne model are better are suited for call centre, interview and briefing rooms. The wall mounting and use of security fixings reduces the risk of removal. With use of an in-car 12V adaptor the units can be used in vehicles. Both the Sentry and Nocturne models can offer air purification of vehicles whilst the XN / Ozone model can offer a deeper clean when the vehicle is not in use. The XN / Ozone model can be used to disinfect the vehicle between use.  The XN / Ozone should not be used whilst the vehicle is in use.

Q14 : Which Ultraviolet Disinfection Systems would you recommend for Emergency Vehicles?

A14: Both the Sentry and Nocturne model can be used via an in-car 12V adaptor that plugs in to a standard 12V vehicle socket – the cigarette lighter. UV-C offers the ideal purification of Emergency Vehicles due to the lack of chemicals or by products that could interfere with patient treatment.  The Oxira UV-C is effective against all airborne infections, therefore offering additional protection to the crew and the patient. Oxira devices also offer themselves to use in other public transport vehicles such as Taxis, Buses and Trains as they offer significant reduction in Covid and other airborne viruses, bacteria or fungus, therefore reducing risk to both staff and customers. The XN / Ozone model can be used to disinfect the cabin between use.  The XN / Ozone model should not be used whilst the vehicle is in use.

Q15: What is the risk from a number of people in an enclosed space?

A15: The risk is directly related to the number of infected people in your region and the number of people in the enclosed space. Put simply: the smaller the space, the higher the number of people in that space coupled with a larger number of infected people in the region means that the chance of an infected person being present increases rapidly which could result in a super-spreading event. A tool to help assess the risk is available at www.covid19risk.co.uk . Following government guidelines about social distancing, wearing a correctly fitting mask and regular hand washing all help to reduce that risk, adding an Oxira Air Neutraliser to the equation helps reduce the risk further.

Q16: How are these OXIRA units different from the many products already in the market?

A16: OXIRA units have been designed specifically for the healthcare industry where simplicity and durability is of paramount importance. Most units out in the market are simply ionisers or dust filters. Whilst they are good at what they do, they are not ultraviolet units. OXIRA uses top quality German ultraviolet tubes to generate high quality UV-C effects and/or ozone. OXIRA units have also been designed with multiple mounting options in mind, specifically wall and ceiling mounting. Tower stands are also available, or simply the units can be placed on any surface. OXIRA units have also been designed with as much safety as possible. The ultraviolet light is shielded as much as possible so that no light is in direct line of sight with the user’s eyes. Many of the other products in the market do not place such safety as an importance.

Q17: How many OXIRA units will I need for my space?

A17: Generally, each NOCTURNE unit will cover a room approximately 40 m3. However, from one room to another there are a variety of factors involved. These can include the amount of fresh air the room is receiving, the number of people in the space and what they are doing, the height of the ceiling and the characteristics of the ambient air. If your space is larger, you have a higher traffic, or other considerations, multiple OXIRA units may be a great solution for you – or talk to us about moving up to a SENTRY or OZONE model.

Q18: Where should I put my OXIRA?

A18: OXIRA is designed to fit nearly anywhere you’d like. On top of tables or shelves, on or under your desk; OXIRA  is versatile enough to fit nicely into the aesthetic of any space . It is important that the area is uncluttered, they can’t be reached by children or the general public and that the air vents – intake and outlet -are free from obstructions to allow air to freely enter and exit the unit.

Q19: What technology do you use, and how does it work?

A19: All OXIRA units all work using the same technology – ultraviolet irradiation. Air is sucked into the unit, the ultraviolet light treats the air and the treated air is expelled from the unit. For the germicidal models, the UV-C used is at 254nm wavelength, which deactivates the cells of viruses, bacteria, yeasts and fungi from the air.

With the Ozone / XN model, the UV-C used is at 185nm wavelength, which is also germicidal, but more importantly generates a steady stream of ozone.

Q20: How natural are these processes?

A20: UV-C and Ozone are produced naturally in nature all the time. It is nature’s way of cleaning our air. UV-C is part of the light spectrum that makes up sunlight and ozone is naturally produced during a thunderstorm. OXIRA has packaged both of these natural processes into efficient, compact and safe units.

Q21: What certification exists for germicidal ultraviolet ?

A21: It is widely known that germicidal ultraviolet technology is effective, and has been a proven method for many years. In fact, none of the top ultraviolet manufacturers provide certification. However, to take an initiative, OXIRA has engaged the laboratory services of a top university in Australia and a report can be produced if specifically requested. A report from The Haffkine Institute is also available. The Haffkine Institute was established in 1899 and is one of the world’s oldest and advanced centres for disease control.

Q22: What is ozone good for?

A22: Ozone naturally breaks down odour particles in the air. That is why after a thunderstorm for example the air smells so fresh.

Q23: Is ozone dangerous?

A23: It has been debated for a long time whether ozone is actually dangerous to health. Certainly, the amount of ozone produced by the Ozone / XN model is significantly low enough not to trigger any health warnings. The most widely held belief is that at high levels it could be an irritant to sensitive people. Therefore, if red teary eyes are detected, it is advisable to switch the unit off and only use the unit when the area is free of people.

Q24: What are typical applications for the germicidal models?

A24: Places of high public presence are always a good place for these germicidal equipment. This is because the fundamental purpose of these units is to lower the germ count in the air. Typical areas of interest are: Clinic Waiting Rooms, Mass Transport Areas, Restaurants, Bars and Cafes, Office Areas and Meeting Rooms.

Q25: What are typical applications for the Ozone / XN?

A25: Because this model produces ozone (which may be an irritant to some people), there is a recommendation to be a bit more careful when installing these units. Places where there is a need to remove odours are the best places to use the Ozone / XN model. Areas typically of interest are: Hospital/Aged Care, Laundry Rooms, Industrial/Commercial Garbage Areas.

Q26: Where do you recommend that I place these units in a room?

A26: OXIRA equipment can be placed anywhere as long as it is not easily reached by the general public. They should not be placed near flammables, i.e. curtains, piles of paper, etc., and the inlet / outlet air vents should be unobstructed to allow air to freely enter and exit the unit.

You may place the unit in an unreachable corner, or under a desk, as long as it’s uncluttered, or on the top of tables and shelves. Wall and ceiling brackets are available for aesthetic mounting of units. If wall or ceiling mounting, there are no definite rules with where the best position is. There are far too many different configurations of room layout to define where the best position would be. Probably the best advice is that it should be in a position where it is most pleasing to be seen. Secondly, it should be in a position where the treated air is not pushed out the window and wasted and as mentioned the inlet and outlet vents are not obstructed. Other factors are such that it should be in a safe place and away from the reach of children.

A lot of times, common sense and experience will be the best tools.

Q27: How large a room will these cover?

A27: As an extremely general answer, each OXIRA will cover approximately a space of 40-60 cubic meters (m3) depending upon the situation and model. The Nocturne is better suited to the smaller room – approximately 40 m3 – and the Sentry to a larger room – approximately 60 m3.

However, at OXIRA we will tell you that there is never a correct answer for this question. The number of influencing factors differ from one room to another. These could include the amount of fresh air the room is receiving, the number of people and what they are doing, the characteristics of the ambient air and so many other factors. But as a general sizing tool, any area larger than 40/50 m3 may require more than one unit. These units have been designed to be compact, quiet and with a multitude of mounting options, that having a few in a large space still maintains the premium look of the place.

Q28: Can we use these at home?

A28: There is no harm using the germicidal models at home, but it may not fully utilise the potential of the unit. Remembering that this unit excels in places where there is a high concentration of people, where the likely transmission of germs is high.

Homes are usually quite sanitary already, so an OXIRA may not be required.

Q29: Can we use these in an infant’s or children’s room?

A29: Under no circumstance should you place an OXIRA ultraviolet (Ozone / XN) unit in a minor’s room. This is just basic safety and should never be left running close to an unattended minor.

Q30: Do these machines require a lot of power and are they eco-friendly?

A30: All OXIRA units are supplied by Oxira.co.uk come with a separate external 12V power supply fitted with a standard UK 3 pin plug and operate at a low power consumption, typically in the range of 15-20W. Each unit should cost less than £2 / month to run 24/7 depending upon your electricity supplier and their rate charge. They have an Energy Efficiency rating of Level VI.

Q31: Maintenance & Upkeep:

A31: Your OXIRA unit is very low maintenance. Each ultraviolet tube has a lifespan of approximately 15,000 hours, requiring replacement annually for maximum efficiency. Replacement bulbs and servicing are available on request and as with all equipment, each bulb has a 12 month warranty renewed upon replacement. Replacement control boards, fans, and other items are also available. The renewed warranty is only applicable to the renewed item.

Q32: ​What Warranty do you provide?

A32: All units come with a 12-month warranty against electrical failure, renewed with each replacement bulb, part, or unit on the replaced item only. Warranty is void if the unit has been used with any power supply other than the one supplied by Oxira.co.uk or there is evidence that the unit has been opened or tampered with in anyway.

Q33: What is your Returns Policy?

A33: Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 you are entitled to a replacement unit or a full refund if the Oxira unit is found to be faulty, the fault reported to Oxira within 30 days of dispatch and the item returned to Oxira, correctly packaged.

If the unit develops a fault between 30 days and 6 months of dispatch, return the unit to Oxira, where we will examine the unit, and if the failure is not as a result of fair wear and tear, accidental damage or misuse Oxira will replace any faulty parts and return the unit to you free of charge.

This right is void if the unit has been used with a power supply other than the one supplied by Oxira.co.uk or there is evidence that the unit has been opened or tampered with in anyway.