Re: Is light unit after-glow a problem?
j.r.anderson (j.r.anderson@mds.qmw.ac.uk)
Wed, 11 Dec 1996 16:14:35 GMT
>
>I too have been concerned with the exposure over time to UV light
>especially with regard to potential eye damage. The eye can be damaged
>by uv radiation and the damage depends on the wavelength. Wavelengths
><300nm typically this takes the form of exposure to an arc welding can
>cause a burn of the outer layer of the eye or a keratitis. This is an
>acute problem causing eye pain several hours after the exposure.
>Wavelengths of 300-400nm can be transmitted thorough the cornea and
>absorbed by the lens where they can cause cataracts.
>
>I discussed this problem with an optometrist who specializes in
>occupational eye injury. He told me that he had not seen nor read
>about eye injuries due to prolonged UV exposure in the printing
>/lithography industry which was somewhat reassuring but I personally
>either shield off the uv light source, wear protective eyewear or
>avoid being in the room when the uv lights are on. In other words take
>reasonable precautions.
>
>Larry Shapiro
I would have replied to this sooner, but I have been ill. I know of an
elderly scientist who used to to fluorescent microscopy in the 1940's to
the 1970's, using a (supposedly) well screened UV light sourcse. He used to
look down the microscope with his LEFT eye. He has had to have his lens in
his left eye removed because of severe, virtually blinding cataracts IN THE
LEFT EYE ONLY. It may be a coincidence, but.....
I really think caution is a good idea.
Jonathan