Optical radiation

Key topics and projects

Worker in front of blast furnace

Liquid metal emits infrared radiation to which workers may be exposed.
Source: IFA

Workers are frequently exposed to optical radiation whilst performing their occupational tasks. People working outdoors are exposed to a natural source of radiation - the sun. Optical radiation may also occur however during indoor work processes. Firstly, it is used intentionally in some processes, for example during glass bonding, UV printing or microcrack testing. Secondly, it can arise as an undesired incidental phenomenon, for example during welding, work involving gas torches, or metal or glass fusion.


Printing line with UV drying station

Ultraviolet radiation is frequently used for the drying of printing ink or lacquers.
Source: IFA

Our work is always focussed upon the workers who are exposed to the radiation. In order for scientifically validated conclusions to be drawn regarding possible risks presented by radiation, suitable measurement methods must be used to determine the exposure. All institutions committed to occupational safety and health invest considerable effort in regulations, limit values and standards in order for protective measures to be taken in the interests of the workers. In certain cases however, (formally recognized) occupational diseases may nevertheless occur.

In our projects, we address questions that arise in the field, and feed the results of the projects back into day-to-day activity in industry.


DGUV and SVLFG position paper (circular, in German only)

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Contact

Claudine Strehl, M.Sc.

Ergonomics, Physical environmental factors

Tel: +49 30 13001-3470
Fax: +49 30 13001-38001


Timo Heepenstrick, M. Sc.


Sven Connemann, M. Sc.

Ergonomics, Physical environmental factors

Tel: +49 30 13001-3472
Fax: +49 30 13001-38001