Artificial optical radiation

Artificial optical radiation is radiation that does not come from the sun. Examples include IR radiation, UV radiation and laser light.

The work tasks and the total amount of radiation to which people working with artificial optical radiation may be exposed must be risk assessed. It is important to also assess indirect risks such as fire, explosion, gas and smoke formation. Risk prevention measures must be taken and radiation protection equipment must be used. Adequate knowledge and training are required in order to work with artificial optical radiation. Apparatus and tools that use laser light must be correctly labelled and marked with appropriate warnings. Protective eyewear must be worn if there is a risk of unprotected eyes being exposed to UV light or laser beams.

When working with class 3B and 4 lasers, a specific person must be appointed to monitor laser safety in the workplace. A danger zone must be demarcated with warning signs around the work area. Only persons working with or performing maintenance on the laser may enter this zone. When working with class 3B and 4 lasers, the laser beam path must be enclosed or shielded, and the beam path must be terminated with a beam stop if the work is performed indoors (exceptions may apply to medical applications).