Infrared Industrial Safety

The human eye does not register infrared light; pupils do not decrease when exposed to infrared as they do with natural light. Industrial workers that spend long periods of time in close proximity to infrared sources should take proper safety measures to protect their eyes.

Sources of Infrared

• Some industries where infrared light sources might be prevalent include laser work, high-intensity beams, glass blowing, welding and other metal-altering mechanisms, thermal testing and even restaurants that use infrared-based equipment to heat up food.

Safety Precautions

• When you are aware that there may be a high concentration of infrared in your endeavors, safety goggles should be worn to block out the infrared rays from your eyes. Also, limiting exposure and keeping your distance from the source can help. In general, the hotter the item, the more infrared it could contain. However, extremely cold items can still contain infrared.

Company Responsibility

• If a company exposes its employees to large quantities of infrared, they should provide them with the proper safety equipment and training to protect them from infrared exposure.