Ultraviolet Safety In The Laboratory

Ultraviolet rays occur often in labs. Ultraviolet light is a form of high energy radiation that are just outside the visual spectrum of human eyes. They can be dangers to humans in several ways.It is so damaging that is can kill DNA and cells instantly that is why it is often used to sterilize rooms and equipment in labs. Certain machines can cause irreversible damage to you in a matter of seconds when exposed to ultraviolet rays. That is why you  must practice ultraviolet safety in the laboratory.

Ultraviolet Safety Protection Equipment

While working with or near ultraviolet rays there are precautions that everyone must take to remain safe. Wearing the correct personal protection safety clothes will help reduce the amount of harmful UV rays that penetrate your skin. You should wear a long sleeved button down lab coat at all times. They should be secured around the neck and wrist to prevent the coat from moving and exposing parts of your skin. This will help keep your arms and chest covered from the UV rays.

While a lab coat is an important part of UV safety in the laboratory there are several other pieces of safety gear that should also be worn anytime you work with ultraviolet rays. While UV filter goggles will help prevent harmful ultraviolet rays from burning your eyes they do not protect the rest of your face. If you are going to be working with high doses of UV radiation a full face mask will cover your eyes,cheeks and lips from the ultraviolet rays.

Wearing gloves on your hands will protect them, They should be disposable nitrile gloves that come up past the wrist and go under the sleeves of your lab coat.

Side Effects Of UV Radiation Exposure

The side effects of ultraviolet radiation can range from mild to extremely severe. Using UV safety in the lab will help reduce your risk of serious injuries while working.

Below is a list of common side effects,injuries and illnesses caused by exposure to UV rays.

  • Sunburn Blisters
  • Lesions on the corneas
  • Burns
  • Skin Cancer


While some of these side effects are minor inconveniences burns on your corneas and skin cancer can be deadly if left untreated. Practice ultraviolet safety in the laboratory to help keep yourself happy and healthy for many more years.

 
  • xu2e5fa82c4dabec95dfe3a78b15085dcc.jpg

References

http://workplacesafetyexperts.com/laboratory-safety/ultraviolet-safety-in-the-laboratory/ Picture: http://www.ehs.washington.edu/rsononion/uvsign.jpg