The study, conducted by the University of Strathclyde, found it was possible to use light to create chemical species that kill bacteria.
Technology developed by a team consisting of an electrical engineer, two microbiologists and an optical physicist was trialled at Glasgow Royal Infirmary.
It was discovered the system, which uses HINS-light, was lethal to bugs including C difficile and MRSA.
HINS-light is a narrow spectrum of visible-light wavelengths, which microbiologist Professor John Anderson explained "excites molecules within the bacteria".
It is normally violet, but the team are working on ways LED lights can be used to make the overall illumination of the room white in colour.
"For the first time, hospitals can continuously disinfect wards and isolation rooms," Professor Anderson asserted, adding the system was only harmful to germs and not patients.
The University of Strathclyde has among its aims to create opportunities for individuals as well as society as a whole through excellence in research.
