optical radiation, including lasers

Optical radiation sources are commonly found in all work sectors. These are sources that can emit radiation as Ultra-Violet (UV), Visible or Infra-Red (IR) light. Examples of these include sterilisation lamps, Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), bar code scanners, intense pulsed lights for cosmetic treatments and so on. Lasers produce optical radiation but are often referred to as being distinct and separate from conventional optical radiation sources due to their unique optical properties.

Assessing exposures to optical sources is complex and requires specialist instrumentation, calibrated for the wavelengths for which measurements are being made. Exposures can also be estimated by theoretical modelling. Complexities in assessments arise as a result of how different wavelengths of optical radiation interact with matter.

Aurora can provide the following optical radiation safety services:

• Advice on the interaction, effects, measurement and assessment optical radiation.
• Laser Protection Adviser (LPA) advice in order to ensure compliance with the relevant laser safety standards and guidance, including assessments of safety systems and classification of laser products.
• Assessments of safety systems and control measures installed for optical radiation systems.
• Physical measurements of exposures at customer’s premises.
• Theoretical assessments of exposures from proposed or installed equipment.
• Production/review of safety documentation with regards to equipment producing optical radiation, i.e., risk assessments and safety cases.
• Optical radiation training.
• Laser safety training.

Currently, there are no specific safety regulations for optical radiation (apart from private medical optical uses) in the UK. However, in 2004 and 2006 the European Union passed directives proposing new regulations regarding the exposure to electromagnetic fields and waves and artificial optical radiation for workers. These directives will lead to the production of specific regulations in the UK.