Ultraviolet (UV) lighting is a powerful tool that can be used for a variety of purposes, from sterilizing medical equipment to curing adhesives. However, despite the benefits they provide, UV lamps can also represent an imminent danger if used without taking appropriate precautions. UV rays may be associated with adverse health effects depending on the duration of exposure and wavelength. Adverse health effects that can occur include erythema (sunburn), photokeratitis (feeling of sand in the eyes), skin cancer, increased skin pigmentation (tanning), cataracts and retinal burns.
Medium-wave UV (UV-B) radiation causes skin burns, erythema (reddening of the skin), and darkening of the skin. Long-term exposures increase the risk of skin cancer. To protect yourself from the hazardous effects of UV lamps, you MUST avoid exposure to direct or reflected germicidal UV rays, as they cause painful eye irritation and skin redness. To use our germicidal products directly against UV-C radiation, you MUST wear gloves on personal protective equipment, a long-sleeved shirt with no gaps between cuffs and gloves, and a face protector that blocks UV rays to protect your eyes and exposed skin.
Under no circumstances should any direct germicidal unit with UV-C radiation be allowed to work with human beings, plants or animals present in the operating area. You should never work in a BSC with the UV lamps on, and the UV lamps should not be turned on when the room is occupied. Comprehensive protectors are really the only adequate protection when working with UV light boxes for more than a few seconds. Anyone who has experienced sunburn knows some health effects of exposure to UV light; however, the levels of UV energy around some UV equipment far exceed levels found in nature. The Journal of Chemical Health & Safety published an evaluation of exposure to UV rays produced by transilluminator light boxes (PDF) that explains hazards, controls and some common errors. Users must be trained on the dangers of UV radiation, the signs and symptoms of exposure, and the proper use of equipment that produces UV rays. Longwave UV (UV-A) radiation represents up to 95% of the UV radiation that reaches the Earth's surface.
However, the regulations relating to these sources restrict the intensity of UV-C rays to a minimum level and may require the installation of special shields or shields to prevent exposure to UV rays. In conclusion, ultraviolet lighting can be a powerful tool when used correctly; however, it is important to take all necessary precautions when using it in order to avoid any potential health risks associated with exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
