Protecting Workers from Ultraviolet Radiation - icnirp

10.4.1 Protection of the skin
Protecting Workers from Ultraviolet Radiation
For occupational exposure to artificial sources, the areas of the skin most usually at risk are the
backs of the hands, the face, the head and the neck, as other areas are generally covered by
working clothes. The hands can be protected by wearing gloves with low UVR transmission. The
face can be protected by a UVR-absorbing face shield or visor, which may also offer eye
protection. Suitable headwear will protect the head and neck.
Figure 10. Various degrees of UVR protection to the eyes, head and neck provided by protective
eyewear and clothing (adapted from Sliney 2005)
10.4.2 Protection of the eyes
Goggles, spectacles, visors or face shields, which absorb UVR, should be worn where there is a
potential eye hazard (Figure 10). The highest levels of UVR commonly encountered are during
electric arc welding, which produces high levels of all wavelengths of UVR, including
substantial irradiance in the UVC region. There is also the possibility of retinal damage from the
intense visible radiation emitted. Welders should be protected by a welding helmet or mask fitted
with absorption filters meeting appropriate standards, as illustrated in Figure 11. Eyewear for
outdoor occupational use should provide protection to both direct and peripheral exposure of the
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