Radiation

Visible light is just one part of the spectrum of electro magnetic radiation, which ranges from radio waves at one end to ultraviolet light and gamma rays at the other.
Try to reduce exposure to all kinds of radiation as far as possible.

Microwaves and Radio Frequencies

1. leakage of energy from microwave ovens is normally very small. Reduce it by keeping door seals clean and ensuring that the hinges, door latch and safety interlocks all work.
2. reduce exposure to stray radio frequency (RF) energy from heaters, driers and presses by shielding the electrode applicator. Limit exposure time or avoid getting too close to the source.
3. do not touch RF electrodes. Prevent unauthorized access to the high voltage electrical equipment e.g. by interlocking all cubicle doors.

Ionizing Radiations

1. a risk assessment of any activity involving work with ionizing radiations must by made before the work begins
2. employers carrying out certain practices must do so in accordance with a prior authorization granted by local government health and safety officials.
3. contractors carrying out site radiography (e.g. checking welds on pipework or vessels must notify local government health and safety official before work starts.
4. smoke detectors and static elimination often contain sources. Find out rules for safe storage and use from the supplier and never tamper with them.
5. treat luminous articles and self-illuminating devices with similar respect.
6. appoint a radiation protection advisor
7. arrange for medical examinations/reviews and routine dose assessment of employees whom you designate as “classified person”
8. appoint one or more of your employees to supervise radiation work
9. make arrangements to cater for spills of radioactive substances, x-ray exposures failing to terminate etc
10. get authorization for use, storage and safe disposal of radioactive substances
11. arrange for tests where raised levels of radon gas are likely because of workplace location, construction and ventilation and have necessary improvements carried out.

Infrared

1. protective clothing may be needed to reduce warming, burning and irritation of the skin from some “hot bodies” such as pools of molten metal. Eye protection with suitable filters should be worn to avoid discomfort and is essential with some infrared sources, such as certain lasers.

Ultraviolet ( UV )

1. UV sources in equipment should normally be in an enclosure, or screened
2. take care to avoid UV light e.g. by wearing suitable clothing and eye protection
3. during welding use special goggles or a face screen
4. protect passers-by, e.g. with screens
5. when fitting replacement UV lamps, choose the correct type specified by the manufacturer. Filters should be kept in place at all times and replaced after changing bulbs or if they are damaged,
6. insect killing devices with bright UV sources are often found in food premises and are not harmful to the eyes in normal use.

Lasers

1. a laser, a concentrated beam of radiation, which may not always be visible, can be dangerous whether it is viewed directly or after reflection from a smooth surface.
2. even with low-powered lasers it is unwise to view the beam directly. Do not override any inter locks
3. maintenance workers who have to examine inside machines may be most at risk. They need to be trained and follow a work system which may include the use of eye protection.
4. high powered lasers should normally be inside a safety interlocked enclosure – only use them after taking expert advice
5. where lasers are used for display e.g. at discotheques, there could be a risk to the public – seek expert advice

Follow Good Safety Rules

1. get safety information from your supplier or other specialist adviser
2. identify , mark and (where possible) enclose sources of radiation
3. identify and clearly mark all hazard areas
4. maintain equipment to minimize exposure, e.g. by regular checking of interlocks
5. instruct employees about dangers and precautions. Including use of the correct protecting equipment
6. review procedures from time to time