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Updated: Feb 20, 2026

Emission Spectroscopic Boundary Layer Investigation during Ablative Material Testing in Plasmatron
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Evaluating optical hazards from plasma arc cutting.

Eric Glassford1, Gregory Burr1

  • 1a National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health , Cincinnati , Ohio.

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene
|October 24, 2017
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Plasma arc cutting at a steel manufacturer emits dangerous ultraviolet and visible light radiation, exceeding safe levels. Enhanced safety measures, including enclosed welding curtains and appropriate eye protection, are crucial for workers and visitors.

Keywords:
Optical radiationplasma arc cuttingultraviolet lightvisible light

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Area of Science:

  • Occupational Health and Safety
  • Industrial Hygiene
  • Optical Radiation Physics

Background:

  • A steel building materials manufacturer requested an evaluation due to concerns about optical radiation hazards from plasma arc cutting.
  • There was a need to clarify eye protection requirements for plasma operators, employees, and visitors.
  • The evaluation focused on ultraviolet (UV), visible, and infrared radiation from plasma arc cutting systems.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To measure the intensity of optical radiation emitted by a plasma arc cutting system.
  • To assess the effectiveness of existing safety measures, such as welding curtains.
  • To determine appropriate eye and skin protection levels for personnel exposed to plasma arc radiation.

Main Methods:

  • Measured the strength of UV, visible, and infrared radiation at various distances and amperages.
  • Observed employees performing plasma arc cutting operations.
  • Compared measured radiation levels to established safety standards and recommended protective eyewear (welding shades).

Main Results:

  • Optical radiation exceeded safe levels for unprotected eyes in the ultraviolet-C (UV-C), ultraviolet-B (UV-B), and visible light ranges during plasma arc cutting.
  • Infrared and ultraviolet-A (UV-A) radiation levels were similar to background levels.
  • Highest exposures occurred without welding curtains; curtains reduced but did not eliminate hazards.
  • Measured intensities often required lower welding shade numbers than OSHA standards.

Conclusions:

  • Plasma arc cutting poses significant optical radiation risks, particularly UV-C, UV-B, and visible light.
  • Current safety measures, including welding curtains and standard PPE, may be insufficient.
  • Recommendations include enclosed welding curtains, warning signs, audible/visual alerts, and enhanced face/skin protection for operators.