Long term exposure to ultraviolet light is dangerous. UV-C can produce eye injuries and skin
irritation similar to a sun burn over prolonged exposure. These effects are considered
transient. UV-C may also be carcinogenic but since it has very limited penetrating ability it is
unlikely to cause damage to anything besides the outer layer of skin or other exposed
surfaces.
The Energenics UV-MAX is designed for zero user exposure to UV-C; however, we will
review safety factors regarding UV-C for better knowledge and understanding.
Protective Clothing and Eyewear
It is not recommended that any personnel be subject to direct UV-C exposure. In the event
such exposure is probable, personnel should wear PPE providing full coverage of exposed
skin and appropriate eye protection.
UV-C safety glasses designed to filter UV-C and those of the wrap-around type are recommended.
Safety glasses should be made of any material other than Quartz or Teflon.
OSHA Guidelines for Ultraviolet Exposure
OSHA provides technical guidance regarding protecting employees from ultraviolet light with
respect to laser hazards only.
OSHA has two standards that cover employee exposure to radiation: Nonionizing
Radiation (29 CFR 1910.97) and Ionizing Radiation (29 CFR 1910.1096). You may access a
copy of the OSHA radiation standards from their website at http://www.osha.gov.
The non-ionizing radiation standard only covers the radio frequency region, including
microwaves. The ionizing radiation standard covers alpha, beta, gamma, and X-rays;
neutrons; high-speed electrons and protons; and other atomic particles; but does not
include sound or radio waves, or visible, infrared, or ultraviolet light. Therefore, there are
no OSHA-mandated employee exposure limits to ultraviolet radiation.
