Civilian Pilot Exposure to Ultraviolet and Blue Light and Pilot Use of Sunglasses

Abstract

Population and animal studies indicate that long-term exposure to short-wavelength visible light and ultraviolet (UV) radiation causes increased risk of certain ocular pathologies such as cataracts and maculopathy. The potential risk to flight crew is unknown. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has issued guidance to pilots regarding sunglass selection; however, it is not known if this guidance is appropriate given pilots' unique occupational environment. A search and appraisal of the relevant literature was conducted which showed that within the airline pilot population, there is limited evidence of a higher prevalence of cataracts. There are no data of other known UV-related ocular pathology. There is some evidence of higher prevalence of skin melanomas. Studies measuring cockpit UV radiation levels are limited and leave unanswered questions regarding airline pilot exposure. Data from optical transmission of cockpit windshields demonstrates the UV blocking properties at sea level. No studies have addressed the occupational use of sunglasses in airline pilots. Although it is likely that an aircraft windshield effectively blocks UV-B, the intensity of UV-A and short wavelength blue light present within the cockpit at altitude is unknown. Pilots may be exposed to solar radiation for periods of many hours during flight where UV radiation is known to be significantly greater. Aircraft windshields should have a standard for optical transmission, particularly of short-wavelength radiation. Clear, untinted prescription glasses will offer some degree of UV protection; however, sunglasses will offer superior protection. Any sunglasses used should conform to a national standard.

Workloads and strain process in Community Health Agents

“…Regarding physical loads, the prolonged and cumulative UV exposure is knowingly harmful to the eyes (26) and skin. While developing their work, the CHAs most frequently expose their faces, necks, arms, legs, hands and eyes to solar radiation, which are regions more prone to skin changes.…”

Advancing the framework for considering the effects of climate change on worker safety and health

“…noted some evidence of increased melanoma occurrence in professional pilots. Chorley et al [196] . concluded that pilots flying in daylight hours are exposed to solar radiation that is 2 or 3 times greater at cruising altitudes compared to exposures at sea level.…”

Sunglass Filter Transmission and Its Operational Effect in Solar Protection for Civilian Pilots

“…UVR exposure is associated with cataract formation (12,16,30); however, evidence of increased prevalence of cataracts in pilots is limited (6). There is some evidence (21,37) of a relationship between UV-A exposure and melanocytic skin cancers which, if present on the eyelids, can have significant effect to comfort or vision.…”

“…This translates to a two to three times increase in UVR between sea level and an airline cruise altitude of 35,000 ft (6).…”

“…It is known that pilots are subject to bright light conditions during flight and there are a number of sources (11,18) which offer guidance to pilots on sunglass selection; however, these recommendations are not underpinned by evidence of actual in-flight levels of irradiance or of increased radiation related ocular pathology amongst pilots (6). Although it is recognised that there is a wide population variation in sunlight tolerance and there is likely to be a proportion of the pilot population who do not feel the need to use sunglasses in flight for visual comfort, a number of barriers to sunglass use in pilots have been identified (7) which hinder the successful use of sunglasses in a cohort who would otherwise wish to use them more.…”