07 / Managing Higher Risks

Non-ionising

Radiation

Non-Ionising radiation can be dangerous if not managed and treated with respect. Even though it does not have the energy levels to ionise atoms on impact like ionizing radiation, it still has potential to result in health effects.

The Risks

  • Microwaves and radio frequencies can cause heating of any exposed part of the body, and in some cases can cause reddening or burns to the skin;
  • Infra-red rays can cause skin burns and cataracts;
  • UV light can cause skin burns, skin cancer, conjunctivitis and arc eye;
  • Exposure to UV radiation can damage DNA and can cause health effects, such as cancer, later in life. The risks are small for low levels of exposure, but exposure to high levels of non-ionising radiations can cause acute effects such as burns, or tissue and organ damage;
  • Lasers can cause permanent, severe damage to the eye and skin. Lasers at class 3b and 3r and above are more damaging.

To be able to manage risk associated with non-ionising radiation you need to identify all sources of non-ionising radiations off site workers may be exposed to. Once you have identified the significant risks, you must control them.

Try to reduce any exposure to UV radiation as much as possible. For example, you may be able to use safer alternative processes or equipment, e.g. ultrasonic, non-destructive testing instead of X-rays. Provide protection or protection devices from laser exposure, or remove them all together.

Typical Control Measures

  • Time – Minimise how long you are exposed to the energy source
  • Distance – Keep as far from it as you can
  • Shielding – For optical energy sources, put an energy absorbing or reflecting barrier between it and you (e.g. sunscreen for UV)
  • Reduce Energy Levels – Where you can, use equipment or work in areas where the energy levels are as low as possible

The following precautions are all based on these basic principles. Measuring the exposure levels of these radiant energy sources and then predicting exposures is a specialist task using highly technical equipment.