[The evaluation of optical radiation hazards: methods, case studies and critical aspects]

Purpose. Currents methods for the evaluation and control of optical radiation hazards at workplaces are presented. Methods. Safe exposure criteria that may be readily applied to practical situations are discussed. Hazard evaluation techniques are discussed for a number of intense optical radiation sources. Examples include arc welding, germicidal lamps in medical and laboratories activities, metal and glass melting. Results. Hazard data and PPE choice criteria are provided, taking account of varied critical aspects from the case studies discussed. Conclusions. Some critical aspects in the optical radiation safety management have been discussed. The improvement of protection programmes is needed to raise awareness of the health hazards of optical radiation, and to achieve the application of simple engineering controls and/or administrative controls aimed at ensuring that workers are made aware of the presence of potentially harmful optical radiation and providing information to avoid such harmful exposure, according to AOR Directive.