Exposure to intense ultraviolet radiation for a prolonged period of time can be very dangerous, especially to the eyes. Even after a short time, UV radiation will cause reddening and burning of the skin and eyes. Our Arc Lamp, Deuterium Sources, and Large Area Illuminators produce high intensity, harmful, ultraviolet radiation. QTH sources and spectral calibration lamps also produce UV. All personnel operating these sources should wear protective eyewear and clothing.
UV Safety Spectacles
The UV safety spectacles afford greater comfort and are made from hard, durable non-UV transmissive plastic with close fitting side shields to prevent UV radiation from reaching the eyes.
Tech Note
Many plastic materials have surprisingly high UV transmittance. Plastic impact goggles are not usually suitable for UV protection.
UV Protective Faceshield
Our 1000 W and 1600 W sources emit extremely high levels of UV radiation. Goggles alone will not protect the user. We strongly recommend that all personnel operating our high intensity UV sources wear a UV protective faceshield, in addition to gloves and clothing, so that there are no exposed areas of the body. Take particular care of the neck and wrists, as these are parts that are often inadvertently exposed. Our 49132 UV protective faceshield absorbs UV radiation from 200 to 405 nm. The shield is 8 x 14 inches (203 x 356 mm), and 0.080 inches (2mm) thick.
Protective Gloves
Hands working with fixtures in the beam are particularly prone to UV exposure. Even minimal exposure may cause burning of the skin. Our gloves protect the hands yet maintain the flexibility necessary for manipulation of small components. The gloves are made from black neoprene with a soft cotton flock lining, which absorbs perspiration for easy on and off. Two sizes are available: U.S. 8 and 10 (medium and large).
Adhesive Backed Signs
These large, adhesive backed warning signs should be posted in all areas where UV or laser radiation may be present to warn people in the area of the possible danger. They are made of flexible Mylar with a peel-off adhesive back. The 79006 set of signs includes the flowing six legends:
One "CAUTION" UV sign
Two "CAUTION" laser signs
Three "DANGER" laser signs