The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned consumers against the use of specific wands with ultraviolet (UV) radiation to disinfect different types of surfaces to kill germs.¹

This announcement was posted by the FDA on August 17, during which the organization pointed out that the use of such devices might lead to the exposure of the user or individuals in close proximity to hazardous amounts of ultraviolet-C (UV-C) radiation.

UV-C radiation can lead to risk of skin or eye injury, which could take place within a matter of seconds of operation of such devices.

“The FDA is aware that some manufacturers are marketing unsafe UV wands to consumers to disinfect surfaces and kill germs in the home or similar spaces outside most health care settings,” the organization wrote in a statement. “The FDA recommends that consumers do not use these products and consider using safer alternative methods.”

A roster of impacted items was provided by the FDA, with the organization noting that these goods could also bear alternative designations. The current list is provided here, although their site will provide updates:

• Safe•T•Lite from Max-Lux Corporation
• OttLite Rechargeable UVC Disinfecting Wand, model: UV10002M from OttLite Technologies Inc.
• UVILIZER Flip, model: SG-153 from In My Bathroom LLC, “dba” IMB
• Ultraviolet Sterilamp, model: PURPLEGLOW from Vanelc
• Sharper Image® UV Sanitizing Portable Wand, model: 101362 from MerchSource LLC
• SurfaceSoap UV from PhoneSoap LLC
• Magic UV Light SanitizerTM from Magic UV Light Sanitizer
• Purple Glow Ultraviolet Sterilamp, model: BP52 from In My Bathroom LLC, “dba” IMB
• UVILIZER UV Light Sanitizer, model: Razor from In My Bathroom LLC, “dba” IMB
• OttLite Compact Travel Disinfecting Wand, model: UV11001M from OttLite Technologies Inc.
• WBM Smart UV Portable Sterilizer, model: UV-03 from World Business Management (WBM).
• Safe and Healthy Disinfecting UV Light, model: 2090 from Ontel Products Corporation.
• 59S® Wand Disinfector, model: 5F1025917 from Shenzhen UV Guard Technology Co., Ltd.

The FDA added that it recommends readers adhere to the safety guidelines which are provided along with UV wands, the contents of which cover instructions for safeguarding your skin and eyes against accidental UV-C exposure.

The organization further added that it recommends evaluating the potential use of alternative disinfection approaches, including chemical cleansers, to eliminate germs in domestic or comparable places.

The FDA’s statement also pointed out that they will regularly revise the provided list as manufacturers undertake corrective measures, and if they identify other products that pose risks they will inform the public.

References

1. ^{Do Not Use Ultraviolet (UV) Wands That Give Off Unsafe Levels of Radiation: FDA Safety Communication. United States. August 17, 2023. Accessed August 17, 2023. https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safety-communications/do-not-use-ultraviolet-uv-wands-give-unsafe-levels-radiation-fda-safety-communication?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery}