Ultraviolet light (UV) - safe work guidelines

• UV exposure is not immediately felt.
• Damage can occur from only a few seconds of exposure.
• Eyes and skin are most at risk for damage.  There is a cumulative risk of harm.
• Risks to the eyes include:  photokeratitis, cataracts, pterygium, cancer, and age-related macular degeneration.
• Risks to skin include:  erythema, premature skin ageing, and skin cancer.

• Biological Safety Cabinet
• Crosslinker
• Fluorescence Detector
• Fluorometer
• HPLC Machines
• Transilluminator
• Spectrometer
• UV Microscope
• UV-Vis Detector
• Xenon lamp
• Arc lamp

The following safety controls are to be implemented where appropriate; based on the type of equipment, work location, and risk of exposure to persons from UV emitting devices. 

Engineered

• Reduce exposure risk by locating equipment in a separate room and using UV-absorbing shields.
• Interlocks - opt for equipment that prevents operation when safety may be compromised.
• Eliminate reflective surfaces by covering area with non-UV-reflecting material.
• Close sash hoods completely when using UV lights in biological safety cabinets.

Administrative

• Individuals are to be trained by their supervisors on the risks of UV light exposure and the safe operation of the UV light emitting equipment.
• Warning Signs – all locations where an individual entering the area may be exposed to UV light, shall be labelled with a warning sign e.g. “UV HAZARD - PROTECT EYES AND SKIN”

Personal protection

• Wear lab coat and long pants.
• Nitrile gloves are recommended, but consider all hazards when selecting gloves.
• Glasses should wrap around and be ANSI-Z87 rated.
• A face shield is preferred as it protects more skin area.