• emit hazardous UVC radiation at 254nm (when new and kept clean!)

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• emit hazardous UVB radiation at 297 nm
• particularly hazardous because they emit the radiation upwards whilst the researcher is looking down
• one of the common applications for transilluminators involves the user leaning closely over the transilluminator to cut gels
• measurements report time-to-exposure limit-values of about 40 seconds, showing the importance of taking precautions to prevent or reduce exposure

• outdoor work in the summer can lead to excessive UV exposure
• UV-A and UV-B rays, unlike UV-C rays, are not filtered by air and therefore, on sunny days, can be of a sufficient intensity to cause skin and eye damage over a short period of time.
• in high altitudes and the Arctic, where the atmosphere is thinner, the intensity of UV radiation will be considerably higher
• snow and water reflect UV rays, increasing their effects further
• workers should cover up or use a high factor sun cream
• SPF factor indicates degree of protection: SPF of 4 reduces exposure to ¼, SPF of 10 reduces exposure to 1/10
• head and neck of outdoor workers most likely areas to develop nonmelanoma skin cancer

• adventitious UV is generated by arc welders and these areas must be well screened for unprotected workers

• other processes such as printing and curing use various UV wavelengths

• use predominantly UVA wavelengths but fast-tanning units use more UVB
• excessive use is not recommended
• people with sensitive skin types are advised not to use them
• over use can lead to premature skin ageing and an increased risk of skin cancer

• emits UVA
• only emit low levels of UVA radiation within acceptable limits