UV Radiation in Daily Life
David Rawlings is SRP ' s Science & Technology Director and chair of its EMFOR( Electromagnetic Field and Optical Radiation) Committee. He has a background in both ionising and non-ionising radiation safety and has recently retired after 44 years working within healthcare. He has a keen interest in promoting SRP in general and extending its role across all sectors of radiation safety.
What is Ultraviolet Radiation? Ultraviolet radiation( UV) is part of the electromagnetic spectrum. In terms of the wavelength, UV sits between visible light and ionising radiation. Unlike light, it cannot be observed directly. Unlike X-rays and gamma rays, UV will not interact with the inner shells of an atom or directly produce single or double strand breaks in DNA. However, UV can cause changes to the skin and superficial layers of exposed tissue. This may result in permanent damage or, in some cases, skin cancer. UV can also result in trauma and long-term damage to eyes. Mechanisms for UV damage in humans are not fully understood but symptoms are likely to include inflammation, cataracts and other abnormalities of the eye, darkening and thickening of the skin, changes to the immune system, DNA damage and skin cancer. Employees likely to be exposed to artificial sources of optical radiation, including UV, are covered by the UK“ Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010”( AOR).
Where might we find UV radiation in our daily life? Employees who work outdoors and members of the public may be exposed to harmful levels of UV. The UV Index( UVI) is a measure of the likely maximum outdoor UV exposure at any location over the four-hour period either side of solar noon. For values of UVI above 2, protective clothing, sunscreen and avoidance are usually encouraged during midday hours.
Artificial solaria represent a further potential source of UV exposure to the public. In the UK, solaria are subject to regulation, with the aim of limiting UV output and preventing children from accessing the service. Some other countries ban sunbeds altogether.
UV lamps are used to treat psoriasis and some other skin conditions. Treatments are usually carried out in a hospital and managed by a medical practitioner but may also be self-administered within the patient ' s home setting. Controls generally consist of shielding, access management and personal protective equipment( PPE). A risk assessment would usually be required.
UV curing lamps are used in a wide range of industrial sectors, including the manufacture of mobile phones. They work by initiating
General health and safety legislation along with a range of supporting UV guidance is pertinent to all workers and members of the public.
Radiation Protection Today Spring 2025
Doctor examining the patient for cancerous moles on the skin – these can be caused by ultraviolet radiation
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