When working with germ-free or axenic mice we would like to point out that the germicidal lamps are used for disinfecting the interior surfaces of a biosafety cabinet prior to and after use. The germicidal properties of ultraviolet light are used in addition to routine chemical disinfection and must not be relied on as the sole method of disinfection, seeing that the activity of UV lights for sterilization/decontamination purposes can be limited by a number of factors including:

Penetration: UV light does not penetrate soil or dust. Microorganisms beneath dust particles or beneath the work surface are not affected by UV radiation. Areas hidden or shadowed from the light are not disinfected.

Relative Humidity: Humidity decreases the effectiveness of UV light. Antimicrobial effects of UV light drops off precipitously above 70% relative humidity.

Temperature and Air Movement: Optimum temperature for UV light output is 25 to 27° C (77 to 80°F). Temperatures below this optimum level result in reduced output of the antimicrobial wavelength.

Lamp Cleanliness: Dust and dirt can block the germicidal effectiveness of UV lights. UV lamps need to be cleaned weekly with a mixture of alcohol and water.

Lamp Age: The intensity of UV light emitted from UV lamps decreases with age, and bulb ratings (hours of use) may vary by manufacturer. UV lamps need to be checked periodically to ensure the intensity of UV light needed for germicidal activity is being emitted.

As to the effectiveness of UV irradiation the CDC (Center for Disease Control) states that the minimal irradiance at the interior surfaces of the biosafety cabinet should not be less than 40 uW/cm2.

To be thorough, you can find, here below, two scientific studies about the effectiveness and use of UV lamps in a class II Biosafety Cabinet

https://academic.oup.com/labmed/article/38/3/165/2504576

https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/153567600801300306