A germicidal lamp is an electric light that produces ultraviolet C (UVC) light. This short-wavelength ultraviolet light interferes with DNA base pairing, causing the formation of pyrimidine dimers and leading to the inactivation of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. It can also be used to produce ozone for water disinfection. They are used in ultraviolet germicidal radiation (UVGI). Applying UVGI to disinfection is an accepted practice. It is used primarily in medical rooms and sterile work facilities. It is increasingly used to sterilize drinking and waste water. UVGI has found a new application in air purifiers.
