Non-ionising Radiation - Artificial Optical Radiation

A practical route forward

This course is written and presented by the authors of the European Commission (EU) guide to the Artificial Optical Radiation Directive.

 

The course will provide delegates with an overview of the nature of optical radiation sources, the effects of exposure, and the basis for the current exposure limits. The requirements of the Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010 will be discussed. Delegates will be introduced to a systematic and practical approach to the assessment of risks from artificial optical radiation sources that will enable the majority of employers to fulfil their duties under the Regulations using manufacturer's data and Standards information. The course uses case studies to illustrate important concepts and includes a discussion of measurement pitfalls along with practical advice on controlling hazardous exposures. The course will conclude with a review of accidents involving optical radiation leading to a discussion on contingency plans and health surveillance.

The non-binding guide to the Regulations includes a large number of worked examples and gives additional guidance on the risk assessment process for other potentially hazardous sources. These sources are present in many workplaces, but particularly the following.

• Hot industries, such as glass and metal working, where furnaces emit infra-red radiation.
• Print industries, where inks and paints are often cured by photochemical processes.
• Art and entertainment, where performers, models and other workers may be directly illuminated by spotlights, effect lighting, modelling lights and flashlamps.
• Non-destructive testing, which may involve the use of ultraviolet radiation to reveal fluorescent dyes.
• Medical treatment, where practitioners and support staff may be exposed to operating theatre spot lighting and the therapeutic use of optical radiation.
• Cosmetic treatment, making use of lasers and intense lights, as well as ultraviolet and infra-red sources.
• Shop-floor and warehousing activities, where large open buildings are illuminated by powerful area lights.
• Pharmaceuticals and research, where ultraviolet sterilisation and induced fluorescence may be in use.
• Water treatment, where ultraviolet sterilisation may be in use.
• Research and education, where lasers and LEDs may be useful tools.
• Metal working, involving welding or plasma cutting.
• Plastics manufacturing, involving laser bonding.

This list is not intended to be exhaustive.

The Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations came into force on 27 April 2010. The HPA has prepared a one-day training course aimed at providing employers with practical guidance of how to best deal with the Regulations.

The courses are being delivered at our dedicated training facilities at the following locations.

Locations and dates

Glasgow - 19 April 2011 

Leeds - 23 June 2011

Chilton (Oxfordshire) - 16 February 2012

Course brochure

Artificial optical radiation training course - application form for 2011 and 2012 (PDF, 76 KB)

Each delegate will receive a copy of the non-binding guide to the Artificial Optical Radiation Directive. The course programme will include the following.

• Indentifying sources in the workplace.
• Quantifying optical radiation hazard.
• The basis for the exposure limits .
• What is in the Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations?
• Managing sources in the workplace.
• Risk assessing artificial optical sources .
• Practical control measures.
• What can go wrong?

Fee

The price of the one-day course is £250. This includes a copy of the draft non-binding guide and other training materials, lunch and refreshments. To book a place on the course, please use the application form in the brochure above and return it to the Training Administrator at HPA Chilton. Places are limited and so please apply in good time to avoid disappointment.

For more information on the course please contact the Training Administrator at HPA Chilton.

Telephone: 01235 822701

Fax: 01235 822601

Email: chilton.training@hpa.org.uk

The standard terms and conditions for training courses held by the HPA Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards are available.

Artificial optical radiation customised training and consultancy services

We are also able to provide customised training courses specifically for your needs. For more information on customised training, the requirements of the Directive; or for assistance with a risk assessment for a particular artificial optical radiation source please email optical@hpa.org.uk.

Background information on training available for optical radiation.

Last reviewed: 8 March 2011