Optical radiation may endanger the skin and eyes of employees
Optical radiation includes the ultraviolet (UV), visible (VIS, light), and infrared (IR) wavelength ranges of the electromagnetic spectrum. People working with this radiation may endanger their health. BAuA searches for ways of avoiding this.
BAuA develops methods for well-founded risk assessment
It is possible for artificial optical radiation to cause significant damage to the eyes and skin - in particular at welding workstations or where powerful lighting systems are in use. BAuA is therefore researching how complex measurement and calculation methods can be simplified to facilitate the risk assessment of such installations without compromising technical standards. Further information and two examples of this approach being applied practically will be found on page 9 in baua: Aktuell 1/2025 (in German only).
An example: Arc Welding Exposure Disk
The Arc Welding Exposure Disk is a user-friendly tool for assessing UV radiation hazards at welding workstations. It is based on scientifically re-evaluated emission models and helps to implement these in a practical manner. Its clear and systematic structure helps specialists to safely assess UV exposure and derive appropriate protective measures.
Sources of radiation in the working environment
Besides the sun as a natural source of radiation, there are numerous artificial sources emitting optical radiation in today's world of work. In this, a differentiation must be made between coherent radiation of a laser and incoherent radiation of LEDs, lamps, or spotlights, but also from plasma light arcs, for example. The commercial use of optical radiation includes material processing, e.g. using lasers, stage machinery as well as medical applications, such as the removal of tattoos. However, the targeted use of optical radiation is common in the private area as well. The use of laser pointers during speeches is only one of many examples.
Wavelength range of optical radiation in the electromagnetic spectrum
However, this non-ionising radiation may endanger the skin and the eyes. A differentiation is being made between acute damage, such as sunburn or photo-keratitis, and long-term damage, such as skin cancer and cataract.
The Ordinance on Industrial Health and Safety regarding Artificial Optical Radiation (OStrV) forms the statutory framework for optical radiation. It was implemented nationally in 2010 based on the European Directive on Artificial Optical Radiation (2006/25/EC)
Project numberF2594StatusOngoing ProjectClimate Change-adapted Multifactorial Concept of Measures for Outdoor Work with Consideration of Innovative Technologies
Project numberF 2448StatusCompleted Project
Effect of light on the alertness during the day: Dependence on the spectral composition of light and the exposure time
Project numberF 2355StatusCompleted Project
Determination of the actual light exposure from natural and artificial sources with regard to circadian effects in shift-working employees - Joint project between BAuA and PHE
