Photos: Fabio Palli
The Italian foundation F.U.L.G.I.S., which manages schools in the city of Genoa, has ensured the comprehensive installation of air decontamination devices, PURELIGHT LUG FLOW, in three schools (Deledda Language High School, Duchessa of Galliera, and Deledda International School). A total of 137 flow devices have been installed in classrooms, gymnasiums, staff rooms, and administrative offices.
The decision to install these devices in school spaces was influenced by a report from the Italian National Institute of Health [1], which confirms the effectiveness of UV-C germicidal lamps in preventing the spread of infections. These lamps help prevent infections transmitted both by contact with contaminated materials and surfaces and through airborne pathogens.
The report also referenced recent laboratory studies on the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which demonstrated that UV-C radiation with a wavelength of 254 nm can effectively inactivate the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic.
The document also included information based on research regarding the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, indicating that the virus spreads more significantly through the air than via surfaces. Additionally, studies confirmed a much higher rate of infections indoors compared to outdoors, where the risk of infection is minimal.
F.U.L.G.I.S. President Antonio Oppicelli emphasized that the installation of air purification devices was not mandated by regulations but was driven by a high awareness of the benefits of UV-C devices, which will protect staff and students from pathogens, as well as from risks associated with asthma and pollen allergies, which are eliminated with comparable effectiveness.
"We strive to provide the highest level of safety in our facilities. These actions are closely related to measures that protect our children and staff from infections, as well as from risks associated with allergies and asthma. This was not an investment we were required to make, but we believe it was crucial for the safety of those who spend many hours working hard in our schools."
— Antonio Oppicelli, President of the F.U.L.G.I.S. Foundation
Susanna Fadda, Director of the F.U.L.G.I.S. Foundation, also noted that the installed devices will help ensure the highest level of safety not only during the pandemic but also in the post-pandemic period.
"We realized that to counter the health crisis, in addition to following the guidelines imposed by the Ministry of Health, we could do more. This is an investment that will also serve in the post-COVID era. We considered the installation of air decontamination devices in classrooms and common areas as a good practice that will provide the highest level of safety for our students and teachers. We also wanted to ensure peace of mind for parents sending their children to our schools. Through the use of additional protective measures, our schools significantly minimize factors that could negatively impact the health of those present."
— Susanna Fadda, Director of the F.U.L.G.I.S. Foundation
We are extremely pleased that the installation of PURELIGHT LUG devices has raised the safety standards of educational institutions, providing protection for students and staff even in post-pandemic times.
