Radiation Safety
Non-ionising radiation
Non-ionising radiation (NIR) is the term used to describe the part of the electromagnetic spectrum covering two main regions:
- optical radiation light): ultraviolet (UV), visible and infrared
- electromagnetic fields (EMFs): power frequencies, microwaves and radio frequencies.
Optical radiation
Optical radiation is another term for light, covering ultraviolet (UV) radiation, visible light, and infrared radiation. The greatest risks to health are probably posed by:
- UV radiation from the sun: Exposure of the eyes to UV radiation can damage the cornea and produce pain and symptoms similar to that of sand in the eye. The effects on the skin range from redness, burning and accelerated ageing through to various types of skin cancer. Refer to our guidance on Working in the Sun.
- misuse of powerful lasers. High-power lasers can cause serious damage to the eye (including blindness) as well as producing skin burns. Refer the University's Local Rules for use of Lasers.
The Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010
The Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010 aims to protect workers from the risks to health from hazardous sources of artificial optical radiation (AOR).
The HSE recognises that the majority of businesses with hazardous sources of optical radiation know how to manage the risks effectively and so has produced guidance to help duty holders decide whether they are already protecting their workers or whether they need to do more under the new regulations.
Guidance for Employers on the Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations (AOR) 2010
The European Commission has recently published the following guidance:
Using lasers outdoors: The Civil Aviation Authority have guidance on the: Operation of Directed Light, Fireworks, Toy Balloons and Sky Lanterns within UK Airspace, which includes the outdoor use of lasers. The document can be downloaded via a link on the HPAs website at: www.hpa.org.uk/laser.
Laser pointers
Two papers have recently been published which highlight the dangers from laser pointers. These are not the laser pointers that have been used in the past for use in lectures, which should now be restricted to 1mW Class 2 devices, but similar looking devices that can be obtained over the internet with outputs of up to 1000mW. For further information read the AURPO article.
Electro magnetic fields
Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) arise whenever electrical energy is used. So for example, EMFs arise in our home from electrical appliances in the kitchen, from work processes such as radiofrequency heating and drying and in the world at large from radio, TV and Telecoms broadcasting masts and security detection devices.
Exposure to high levels of EMFs can give rise to acute effects. At low frequencies EMFs effects the central nervous system of the body whilst at high frequencies, heating effects can occur leading to a rise in body temperature. These effects are extremely rare and will not occur in most day-to-day work situations.
Ionising radiation
Ionising radiations occurs as either:
- electromagnetic rays: X-rays and gamma rays
- particles: alpha and beta particles
It occurs naturally, from the radioactive decay of natural radioactive substances, but can also be produced artificially. People can be exposed externally, to radiation from a radioactive material or a generator such as an X-ray set, or internally, by inhaling or ingesting radioactive substances.
The University has strict rules on the use of ionising radiation. Please refer to the Local Rules by following the link below:
Ionising Radiation: Local Rules
Advice on radiation at the University
The University has specialist officers who give advice on the use of ionising and non-ionising radiation. Please follow the University and Departmental Advisers on Ionising and non ionising radiation link under Advice and Assistance to the right side of this page.
The University also has sub- committees for ionising radiation and non-ionising radiation. These committees discuss use of radiation a the University and are involved in developing the University's local rules. For details follow the "committees and sub-committees" link on the Health and Safety Consultation web pages.