Ultraviolet light (UV) - safe work guidelines
UV light is a type of electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength (180-400 nm), comprised of UVA, UVB, and UVC bands. UV light levels emitted from equipment can exceed natural UV levels.
Potential hazards
- UV exposure is not immediately felt.
- Damage can occur from only a few seconds of exposure.
- Eyes and skin are most at risk for damage. There is a cumulative risk of harm.
- Risks to the eyes include: photokeratitis, cataracts, pterygium, cancer, and age-related macular degeneration.
- Risks to skin include: erythema, premature skin ageing, and skin cancer.
Equipment examples
- Biological Safety Cabinet
- Crosslinker
- Fluorescence Detector
- Fluorometer
- HPLC Machines
- Transilluminator
- Spectrometer
- UV Microscope
- UV-Vis Detector
- Xenon lamp
- Arc lamp
Controlling exposure
The following safety controls are to be implemented where appropriate; based on the type of equipment, work location, and risk of exposure to persons from UV emitting devices.
Engineered
- Reduce exposure risk by locating equipment in a separate room and using UV-absorbing shields.
- Interlocks - opt for equipment that prevents operation when safety may be compromised.
- Eliminate reflective surfaces by covering area with non-UV-reflecting material.
- Close sash hoods completely when using UV lights in biological safety cabinets.
Administrative
- Individuals are to be trained by their supervisors on the risks of UV light exposure and the safe operation of the UV light emitting equipment.
- Warning Signs – all locations where an individual entering the area may be exposed to UV light, shall be labelled with a warning sign e.g. “UV HAZARD - PROTECT EYES AND SKIN”
Personal protection
- Wear lab coat and long pants.
- Nitrile gloves are recommended, but consider all hazards when selecting gloves.
- Glasses should wrap around and be ANSI-Z87 rated.
- A face shield is preferred as it protects more skin area.