Ultraviolet spectral irradiance measurements: an intercomparison of spectroradiometers in laboratory combined with a workplace field test

Abstract

Ultraviolet (UV) irradiance measurements are usually associated with large inaccuracies and uncertainties complicating the comparability of corresponding measurement equipment and its data. For supervisors or safety experts, though, it is mandatory to measure reliable UV irradiances with regard to occupational safety regulations. The following work aims at an intercomparison of five different types of spectroradiometers regarding their wavelength alignment and irradiance accuracy in the UV spectral region that provides the reader with information on how to determine and compare the measurement accuracies of their own devices. In a first step, measurements of two UV irradiance standards, a deuterium and a halogen lamp, were carried out. The percentage deviations of the measured total UV irradiances from their calibrated ones are smaller than ±10% for all spectroradiometers. The quality of wavelength accuracy as well as of the spectral bandwidth, both investigated by means of a low pressure mercury argon lamp are consistent with those stated by the manufacturers. In a second step, UV radiation from a metal active gas welding arc was examined at three distances in combination with a variation of welding current and arc length to check the behaviour of UV irradiance accuracy in field. The overall averaged standard deviation of these field measurements for all CCD array detectors is given by ±8%. For high welding currents this accuracy decreases to ±21%.

Assessment of Levels of Occupational Exposure to UV-A and UV-C Radiation among Shielded Metal Arc Welders in Accra, Ghana

“…The arcs associated with arc welding emits hazardous levels of UVR, and the UVR exposure could potentially injure the welders involved [8,9]. Arc welding produces the full spectrum of UVR.…”

“…Arc welding produces the full spectrum of UVR. The short distance between the arc and the welder's skin may not be sufficient to absorb most of the UV-C. Arc welders may therefore be at significantly increased risk of developing the health effects associated with the UV-A and UV-C emissions [8].…”