Occupational Exposure to Ultraviolet and Infrared Radiation in Welders

Background: Human beings are always exposed to natural and artificial sources of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation. Welding is one of the jobs whose professionals may expose ultraviolet and infrared radiation and suffer from the resulting complications. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine the exposure to ultraviolet and infrared radiation in welders. Methods: This study was conducted on 70 welders in Bojnord city. The UV meter and the IR meter (Hanger) were used to conduct measurements. The measurements were conducted at 10, 50 and 100-cm distances from the welding site, and at two heights, the wrists and eyes. Eye symptoms caused by radiation were collected and recorded by checklist and observation. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics, t-test, and ANOVA. Results: The average age of the workers was 37(10) years, the average work experience was 18(11) years, and the average radiation exposure duration was 3.5(2) hours. The average ultraviolet radiation measured was 4.13(4.88) W/m2 and the average infrared radiation was 17.13(12.54) W/m2 at the welding stations. In 84% ​​of the stations, the measured ultraviolet radiation and in 100% of them, the measured infrared radiation was standard. There were 58 (83%) welders with at least one eye problem. There was a significant relationship between the amount of radiation, and the type of welding, exposure duration, and work history, but no significant relationship between the amount of radiation and height and distance of measurement. Conclusion: In order to prevent eye symptoms in welders, it is recommended to reduce the duration of exposure of the welders or welders should do welding during the day intermittently and use suitable personal protective equipment, especially a suitable welding mask, during welding.  

Keywords:

Ultraviolet radiation , Infrared radiation , Occupational exposure , welding process