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.