Broadband Optical Radiations

Broadband optical radiation sources include ultraviolet, visible and infrared radiation sources. The HPA offers measurement and hazard assessment services for manufacturers, suppliers and users of these sources.

For many applications, access to the optical radiation will be restricted by the appropriate use of engineering controls. However, in some applications, the optical radiation may be accessible. Assessments can be undertaken of the exposure conditions under normal circumstances, under reasonably foreseeable fault conditions and during maintenance or servicing operations.

Measurements for comparison with exposure standards will generally be undertaken using portable spectroradiometers or broadband equipment.  Specialist measurement services are also available using bench mounted spectroradiometers. For further information, please contact the Optical Group at the HPA.

Telephone: 44 (0)1235 831600
Fax: 44 (0)1235 833891
E-mail: optical@hpa.org.uk

Clothing protection measurements

Over-exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) can cause sunburn, skin damage and an increased risk of developing skin cancer. Clothing provides a convenient form of protection against UVR but not all fabrics offer sufficient sun protection.

The HPA performs ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) testing on fabrics and other materials to assess the effectiveness of protection against UVR.

The UPF is evaluated from measurements of spectral transmittance of fabric. Measurements are made in accordance with British Standard BS EN 13758-1:2002 'Textiles – Solar UV protective properties. Part 1: Method of test for apparel fabrics'. The quoted UPF is the lowest measured from the tested sample. Only clothing with UPF of at least 40 can be labelled as UV-protective in accordance with British Standard BS EN 13758-2:2003. 'Textiles – Solar UV protective properties. Part 2: Classification and marking of apparel'.

Textile materials are often worn under stretched or wet conditions; they may fade due to sun exposure and are subject to laundering. These factors may substantially reduce the UPF rating. The HPA offers customised UPF testing and assessment of UVR protection of sunglasses, shade-cloth and engineering materials.

If you wish to obtain further information or a 'no-obligation' quotation, please contact the HPA (E-mail: optical@hpa.org.uk) stating your requirements.

Last reviewed: 14 April 2010