Optical radiation

Workers are frequently exposed to optical radiation whilst performing their occupational tasks. People working outdoors are exposed to a natural source of radiation - the sun. Optical radiation may also occur however during indoor work processes. Firstly, it is used intentionally in some processes, for example during glass bonding, UV printing or microcrack testing. Secondly, it can arise as an undesired incidental phenomenon, for example during welding, work involving gas torches, or metal or glass fusion.

Our work is always focussed upon the workers who are exposed to the radiation. In order for scientifically validated conclusions to be drawn regarding possible risks presented by radiation, suitable measurement methods must be used to determine the exposure. All institutions committed to occupational safety and health invest considerable effort in regulations, limit values and standards in order for protective measures to be taken in the interests of the workers. In certain cases however, (formally recognized) occupational diseases may nevertheless occur.

In our projects, we address questions that arise in the field, and feed the results of the projects back into day-to-day activity in industry.