As a wide array of Michigan companies have pivoted to the manufacturing of personal protective equipment to aid in the fight against COVID-19, several now see a new way as the economy reopens.

With the fear of spreading the coronavirus that can lead to potentially fatal illness now top of mind, companies increasingly see the use of ultraviolet light as one way to combat that spread.

Ultraviolet light is a decades-old technology that has seen a resurgence in use during the coronavirus pandemic, in part because it’s seen as scientifically effective in killing airborne pathogens such as COVID-19, which can be transmitted by droplets from the mouth or nose.

When surgical face masks were in low supply, doctors and nurses across the country were reportedly buying up small UV lamps to place their used masks under after work.

The labor, time and chemical intensive use of disinfectants for cleaning facilities of all types has spurred greater interest in ultraviolet light for sanitizing surfaces in the pathway of the lights.

The initial rollout of the J M UV product will be mostly focused on business-to-business deals, noting that restaurants, airports and health care facilities will all be among its initial focus. Further consumer sales could come down the road.

The research cites preliminary lab data demonstrating that the product kills roughly 20 times more microbes than soap and water.

Still, the company is not trying to replace the all-important cleaning of hands with hot water and soap.

“Soap and water is still really important,” the engineer said. “It’s getting rid of the grime, the oils and the dirt that are on our hands, our fingertips, inside of our nails. We’re adding another layer.”

In two months time, J M has developed a series of ultraviolet light machines for sanitizing whole rooms in an office setting or other enclosed spaces, such as a store, bus or classroom.

They also have developed a 24-inch-long hand-held ultraviolet light machine for zapping viruses up close, as well as table top and standing steel cabinets for sanitizing masks, clothes or tools with UV light.

Because direct contact of ultraviolet light is harmful to the human eye, the machines have gravity sensing and remote control operation. UV light bulbs made of quartz glass cannot penetrate regular glass windows.

This is a good choice to have a UV light to protect yourself and family.