A material that will fluoresce intensely when exposed to ultraviolet light is flavins. Flavins are found in Vitamin B. Uric acid, uric salts and soap scum contain Vitamin B. Scientists have found that bacteria and germs accumulate on surfaces where high concentrations of flavins reside. Uric acids and soap scum are commonly deposited on restroom fixtures including toilets, urinals, walls, partitions, mirrors, floors and counter tops. When ultraviolet light is shined on surfaces with uric acid or soap scum deposits they reflect and emit visible light to the naked eye when viewed in total darkness.
Germ growth can lead to odor problems and create an unhealthy restroom environment.
Restrooms can be inspected with the use of an appropriate ultraviolet light. This can be intimidating to some custodial personnel. A more positive application of ultraviolet light is to train custodial personnel by exposing the areas where bacteria commonly are found. The visualization of these areas will guide the custodian and provide a road map for better cleaning and disinfection of the restroom environment.