What is optical radiation?

Optical radiation concerns the spectrum of electromagnetic radiation, which is in wavelengths of 100 nanometers (nm) to 1 millimeter (mm) containing infrared radiation, visible light and ultraviolet radiation. Radiation with wavelengths at the lower end, between 100 nm and 400 nm, is categorized as ultraviolet radiation, while those between 400 nm and 800 nm apply to visible light that can be seen by the human eye. The wavelengths of light above this level, from 800 nm to 1 mm, are said to belong to infrared radiation. Although ultraviolet, infrared radiation is invisible to the human eye, depending on the length of the exposure, which causes it to thoroughly understand optical radiation in creating artificial lighting devices.

and artificial light is a source of optical radiation, whether it emits visible or invisible light. TV and computer displays, concert lights, welding lights and sunscreen are just a few programs that people use constantly. KnowledgeThe emitted light and the exposure duration is decisive in determining whether there are any optical risks when using these devices. In 2002, the European Parliament and the Council set an artificial directive on optical radiation defining optical radiation and emphasized minimal safety and health requirements for people working with this type of radiation in their working environment. Some types of radiation, such as light from the sun, microwave, radio waves and X -rays, are not covered in this directive.

different types of radiation are beneficial or harmful to human health depending on the duration of exposure. For example, solar lamps that emit ultraviolet radiation are used many to obtain tan at the set times. Too much exposed to ultraviolet radiation, however, whether because of artificial light or natural Suncket can result in skin damage and premature skin aging; Long -term exposure to infraredRed radiation is also harmful. Although most light sources used in the working environment do not pose any optical radiation risk for workers, it is important that those who propose these environments know about risks and remember the marginal values ​​of the exposure.

Some industries where specialized light sources are used include industrial lasers, welding and metal processing and TV lighting studio. Other areas include ultraviolet curing lamps, stage lighting and sunscreen. While the Directive was primarily created to prevent workers from being exposed to excessive radiation and detect adverse health effects in time, they also seek to prevent long -term health risks due to regular exposure. Employers must implement risks assessing the directive and using action plans that include different measures to ensure that the position limit is not exceeded.