A warning has been issued to U.S. consumers about using eight different types of ultraviolet wands that are used to disinfect surfaces because they could emit high levels of radiation that can cause injuries to the skin or eyes. According to an alert issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), some of these products could produce as much as 3,000 times the recommended exposure to ultraviolet-C radiation. So far, there have been no significant injuries, but the FDA warns that the products can lead to significant injuries.
Ultraviolet Wands: Dangerous and Defective Products
Using the ultraviolet wands even for a few seconds, the FDA warned, could cause a burn-like skin reaction called erythema or photokeratitis, an injury that can lead to severe pain and the feeling of having sand in one’s eyes. The agency said in its alert that when “a product is advertised to disinfect in seconds, it likely means that it gives off an unsafe level of UV-C radiation.” The FDA has notified manufacturers of the dangerous defect and said it plans to work with companies to “ensure adequate corrective actions.” The FDA is advising consumers against using UV wands that do not include safety instructions or information about the amount of radiation emitted by the products. It also advised people to consider using products like chemical cleaners instead of UV wands to disinfect surfaces. Ultraviolet tools have long been used to help curtail the spread of bacteria. However, interest in such products spiked during the pandemic as people sought more ways to protect themselves from COVID-19. Too much exposure to radiation could also lead to other medical problems such as skin cancer.Product Liability Issues
Manufacturers have a legal obligation to ensure that their products work effectively and to conduct the proper safety tests before selling their products to consumers. Manufacturers of defective products can be held accountable for the damages they cause. Injured victims can file what is known as a product liability claim seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, cost of hospitalization, pain and suffering, rehabilitation, and other related damages. An experienced product defect lawyer who has successfully handled product liability claims against large manufacturers on behalf of injured victims can help advise injured victims and their families in such cases. Source: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/do-not-use-ultraviolet-uv-wands-give-unsafe-levels-radiation-fda-safety-communication
Scott Ritsema
Scott Ritsema is a California personal injury attorney with over 3 decades of experience representing injured plaintiffs throughout Southern California. A top-rated trial lawyer, Scott is also a partner at the law firm of Bisnar Chase Personal Injury Attorneys, LLP and has helped secure millions in verdicts & settlements. Scott has successfully taken on hundreds of cases and has had much success in and out of California courtrooms.
