Beyond the Surface - an ISSA Podcast
The Healthcare Surfaces Institute (HSI) presents Beyond the Surface, a compelling podcast exploring the foundational role of surfaces in healthcare environments and their impact on patient safety. Each episode delves into key topics like Healthcare Associated Infections (HAIs), surface contamination, innovative materials, the role of surfaces in healthcare environment and how and why they support or hinder effective cleaning and disinfection practices.
Featuring healthcare professionals, infection control experts, materials scientists, and HAI survivors, this podcast blends powerful personal stories with expert insights to drive the critical changes that need to take place for improved infection prevention. Tune in to gain valuable knowledge and help create safer healthcare environments.
Beyond the Surface - an ISSA Podcast
Understanding UV Disinfection Technologies
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In this episode, Linda Lybert sits down with Peter Gordon, Board of Education member, UV industry veteran, and volunteer with UV4Good, a nonprofit dedicated to education around photonic disinfection. Together, they unpack the complexities healthcare leaders face when choosing and using UV systems.
Peter breaks down:
- The different types of UV emitters (LED, mercury, xenon) and what they’re actually good for
- Why line‑of‑sight, room layout, and human behavior can make or break effectiveness
- How to evaluate sales claims, ask the right questions, and avoid costly missteps
- What the EPA, FDA, and UK regulators are — and aren’t — doing
- How hospitals can validate performance, build staff habits, and monitor long‑term effectiveness
- The “Goldilocks zone” of UV: balancing pathogen reduction with protecting hospital materials
Whether you’re an infection preventionist, environmental services leader, or just curious about the technology behind safer healthcare environments, this conversation delivers clarity, nuance, and practical guidance straight from someone who has lived it from both the technical and educational sides.