Works in Progress Podcast The death rays that guard life: We can use ultraviolet light to disinfect public spaces
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Apr 10, 2026 They explore using germicidal ultraviolet light to disinfect indoor air like water is treated. History of waterborne disease control and why airborne infections were neglected. The rise, fall, and comeback of UV technology, including safer far-UVC. Real-world trials, alternatives like ventilation and filtration, and challenges around deployment and standards.
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Air Should Be Treated Like Drinking Water
- Airborne disease control lags water sanitation despite similar tools like replacement, filtration, and disinfection.
- Historical water interventions cut typhoid massively; the podcast argues ventilation, filters, and germicidal UV could do the same for air.
Duke Surgery's Dramatic Infection Drop
- Duke's 1936 operating-room UV installation cut post-op wound infections from 11.6% to 0.2% across 2,463 cases.
- Afterward, UV curtains in hospitals reduced cross-infections by 40–96% in several cities.
Install UV Up High And Use Air Circulation
- Use upper-room UV fixtures or overhead far-UVC to disinfect circulated air while keeping beams away from occupants.
- Natural air circulation draws pathogens to the ceiling where UV can inactivate them before return.