Guidance for Assessing Non-Ionising Radiations
When the International Radiation Protection Association( IRPA) was formed in 1965, it did not encompass non-ionising radiation. The topic was first included in IRPA ' s 3rd International Congress in 1973 and subsequent working and study groups led to the establishment of an International Non- Ionizing Radiation Committee( INIRC).
In 1992, the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection( ICNIRP) was chartered as an independent commission to continue the work of the INIRC. Its remit encompasses electromagnetic radiation( ultraviolet, visible, infrared), electromagnetic waves and fields, and infra- and ultrasound. ICNIRP ' s guidelines have been incorporated into legislation or adopted as standards in many countries.
The first European guidance on non-ionising radiation was issued in 1999( Council Recommendation 1999 / 519 / EC) covering exposure of the public to electromagnetic fields( 0 Hz to 300 GHz). The EC then introduced the European Directive on exposure to Physical Agents at Work( 2013 / 35 / EU). The regulations relating to nonionising radiations, including lasers / optical sources, were made under this directive.
Non-binding guide to good practice for implementing Directive 2006 / 25 / EC " Artificial optical radiation "
UK legislation comprises The Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010 and The Control of Electromagnetic Fields at Work Regulations 2016. The Health and Safety Executive( HSE) has published accompanying guidance:
Electromagnetic fields at work- A guide to the Control of Electromagnetic Fields at Work Regulations 2016
Guidance for Employers on the Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations( AOR) 2010
The EU has published two guides to assist users in the workplace with assessing hazards and risks from optical light sources and electromagnetic radiations. These can be downloaded via the following links:
EC Non-binding guide to good practice for implementing Directive 2013 / 35 / EU Electromagnetic Fields. Volume 1, Practical guide and Volume 2, Case Studies
The International Commission on Non- Ionizing Radiation Protection( ICNIRP) is an independent, non-profit organisation that aims to protect people and the environment against adverse effects of non-ionising radiation. Its guidelines are widely adopted, including by the European Union. ICNIRP also organises seminars and conferences and collaborates with many organisations involved in NIR protection across the world.
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