Non-ionising radiation - Optical radiation

Physical Agents (Optical Radiation) Directive

The Optical Radiation Directive was published in the Official Journal of the European Communities on 27 April 2006 (Ref: L114) under the title of “Directive 2006/25/EC on the minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to the risks arising from physical agents (artificial optical radiation)”

The Directive has to be implemented by 27 April 2010. Further information can be found at   http://www.hse.gov.uk/aboutus/europe/euronews.htm

• Regulatory Impact Assessment

UV exposure

• Sun protection
• Working in the sun
• Sunbeds

In addition to promoting information about the hazards of undue exposure to the sun for those people who work outdoors, we are also involved in a much broader public health campaign called SunSmart. Our role is to provide input to target those people who spend most of their time working outside. More information about the campaign can be found on the Cancer Research website in the pages about cancer/reducing risk.

FAQ. Do I need to provide sun cream and sunglasses for staff who work outside?

There is no legal obligation for employers to provide sun cream or sunglasses for outdoor workers. The information in HSE’s leaflets encourages employers of outdoor workers to include sun protection advice in routine health and safety training and advises workers to keep covered up during the summer months.