Eye exposure to optical radiation in the glassblowing industry: an investigation in southern Ontario.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate if the levels of optical radiation hazards in glassblowing are well classified according to the hazard types defined in the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standard for industrial eye protectors.


METHODS
We carried out radiometric measurements, and questionnaire survey in 4 university glassblowing laboratories, and 3 private studios.


RESULTS
There is exposure to low levels of UV and IR radiation in all glassblowing operations. A supra-threshold IR radiation level exists in the craft glassblowing. The use of eye protectors is based on past experience regardless of the level of ocular exposure.


CONCLUSIONS
Optical radiation hazards exist in both craft and scientific glassblowing. There seems to be an inadequate understanding about radiation types encountered by glassblowers.
Oriowo
O M
OM
Optical Radiation Laboratory, School of Optometry, University of Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1. Loriowo@sciborg.uwaterloo.ca
Chou
B R
BR
Cullen
A P
AP
D000328:Adult; D017610:Calcium Compounds / Q000032:analysis; D003035:Cobalt / Q000032:analysis; D005123:Eye / Q000528:radiation effects*; D005131:Eye Injuries / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology; D005135:Eye Protective Devices; D005260:Female; D005898:Glass; D006801:Humans; D007221:Industry; D008297:Male; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D009864:Ontario; D010087:Oxides / Q000032:analysis; D011791:Quartz / Q000032:analysis; D011874:Radiometry; D017640:Silicates / Q000032:analysis; D012972:Sodium Hydroxide / Q000032:analysis; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays / Q000009:adverse effects
D017610:Calcium Compounds; D010087:Oxides; D017640:Silicates; D011791:Quartz; D003035:Cobalt; C004569:soda lime; D012972:Sodium Hydroxide