A contractor is welding in a care home maintenance area. Hours later, a support worker starts experiencing severe eye pain and sensitivity to light. Oddly, no one was directly welding, and no one wore eye protection. Was this a workplace hazard that couldn’t be avoided, or could it have been prevented?
What the worker is experiencing is arc-eye, a painful condition caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. Often overlooked, arc-eye is not just a medical issue but a serious workplace hazard that, if not controlled, could also lead to legal consequences for employers
In this article, we’ll explain what arc-eye is, outline the legal responsibilities UK employers have under the Artificial Optical Radiation Regulations 2010, and explore how to prevent these painful injuries in the workplace.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
Arc-eye is not a qualification or framework. It is a medical condition caused by ultraviolet radiation exposure. However, UK employers have legal duties to control artificial optical radiation risks under specific health and safety legislation.
Arc-eye, also known as photokeratitis, is a medical condition that occurs when the cornea of the eye is damaged by intense exposure to UV radiation. It is commonly associated with welding activities, but can also result from exposure to other UV sources, such as sunlight or reflective surfaces. Despite being a serious workplace hazard, arc-eye itself is not a statutory training course or a framework to be certified in. However, it is important to understand the legal obligations employers have to protect their workers from such exposure.
The UK laws that cover UV radiation exposure and prevent arc-eye include:
While the law requires risk control measures to prevent arc-eye, there is no legal requirement for an “arc-eye certificate” or a specific training program dedicated solely to arc-eye. Instead, the focus is on ensuring that employers are providing appropriate protection, conducting proper risk assessments, and ensuring that PPE is used effectively as part of a broader health and safety strategy.
Arc-eye, also known as welder’s flash, is a painful inflammation of the cornea caused by unprotected exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It resembles sunburn of the eye, and symptoms usually appear several hours after exposure.
Arc-eye, medically known as photokeratitis, occurs when the epithelium (the outermost layer) of the cornea is damaged by excessive UV radiation. This can happen during activities like welding, cutting, or grinding, where intense UV light is emitted from welding arcs. It can also happen from reflected sunlight off surfaces such as snow, water, or sand.
The symptoms typically don’t show immediately and usually appear 3–12 hours after exposure. The corneal burn results in pain, redness, tearing, and light sensitivity, similar to the effects of sunburn on the skin. Most cases of arc-eye resolve within 24–72 hours as the cornea heals itself naturally, though the pain and discomfort can be quite intense.
Typically, with appropriate care, arc-eye heals within 1–3 days. The recovery involves allowing the cornea to repair itself and often includes lubricating eye drops and pain relief.
In some rare instances, repeated or severe exposure can lead to more serious long-term damage like retinal burns, cataracts, or corneal scarring. However, these complications are not typical with proper protection and care.
While both conditions involve eye inflammation, conjunctivitis (commonly known as pink eye) affects the conjunctiva (the membrane covering the white part of the eye), often caused by bacterial infections or allergens. In contrast, photokeratitis is a UV burn that damages the corneal epithelium.
Arc-eye is not permanent in most cases. With proper treatment and time, the condition typically heals without leaving lasting damage.
Arc-eye differs from other common eye injuries, such as conjunctivitis, because it is specifically caused by UV radiation exposure. Unlike an infection (like conjunctivitis) or a foreign body injury, which might cause irritation or redness, arc-eye results in corneal burn and pain, typically with delayed onset.
Also, the pain associated with arc-eye is often more intense due to the sensitivity of the cornea, whereas injuries like conjunctivitis or foreign body scratches may not cause as much immediate pain.
Moreover, while conditions like conjunctivitis or dry eye may recur, arc-eye is usually self-limiting and resolves within a few days, provided there are no further incidents of UV exposure.
Arc-eye occurs when unprotected eyes are exposed to intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Welding arcs are the most common cause in workplaces, but reflected sunlight, tanning equipment, and certain lamps can also trigger the condition.
Arc-eye is primarily caused by overexposure to UV radiation. This exposure can come from various sources, with welding arcs being the most common cause in workplaces like construction sites, factories, and repair shops. UV radiation from welding arcs can damage the corneal epithelium, leading to pain and sensitivity in the eyes.
It’s important to note that bystanders can also be affected by reflected UV radiation, not just the people directly working with the source. Distance alone from the source of radiation does not guarantee safety, as reflected light can still pose a significant risk, making it important to use appropriate shielding and eye protection at all times.
Also, contrary to common misconceptions, the 10-meter distance mentioned by some competitors is oversimplified. Workers can still be at risk of arc-eye from reflections or inadequate PPE, even from further distances.
Symptoms of arc-eye typically develop several hours after exposure and include intense eye pain, tearing, redness, light sensitivity, blurred vision, and a gritty sensation, often affecting both eyes if the exposure was environmental.
Arc-eye symptoms usually don’t appear immediately; they typically develop 3–12 hours after exposure to UV radiation. The pain associated with arc-eye can be severe, especially since the cornea is highly sensitive. Other common symptoms include:
If the symptoms persist for more than 48 hours or worsen, or if there are significant issues with vision, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Arc-eye is usually a temporary condition, but prompt treatment can reduce discomfort and prevent further damage.
Avoid applying food or non-sterile substances (such as potatoes or milk) to the eyes, as this can worsen the condition or lead to additional infections. Instead, use cold compresses, lubricating eye drops, or prescribed medication under medical supervision to manage symptoms.
Arc-eye is diagnosed through a clinical examination, often using fluorescein dye to reveal corneal surface damage. A healthcare professional will assess symptoms, review exposure history, and rule out foreign bodies or chemical injuries.
To diagnose arc-eye, a medical professional will typically begin by taking a detailed history of the patient’s symptoms and their exposure to UV radiation. This may include questioning the person about their work environment (e.g., welding, outdoor activities) and the duration and intensity of the UV exposure.
The most common diagnostic technique is fluorescein staining, where a special dye is applied to the eye. The dye is absorbed into areas of the cornea that have been damaged by UV radiation. Under blue light, the corneal damage is highlighted, allowing the healthcare professional to clearly see the areas affected by the UV burn. This method is effective for assessing the severity of the condition and determining the appropriate treatment.
Although anaesthetic eye drops can relieve pain temporarily, they should never be used at home. These drops can mask the pain symptoms, preventing the person from noticing more severe issues like infection or progressive damage. Furthermore, overuse of these drops can cause the corneal epithelium to lose its ability to heal naturally.
If symptoms last longer than 48 hours, worsen, or are accompanied by vision changes, it is essential to contact NHS 111 or visit an optometrist for a proper evaluation. Timely medical intervention can help prevent complications like permanent vision impairment.
Arc-eye is usually self-limiting and resolves within 24 to 72 hours once exposure stops. Treatment focuses on pain relief, lubricating drops, and preventing infection under medical supervision.
Arc-eye typically heals on its own within a few days as the corneal epithelium (the outer layer of the eye) regenerates. While the condition is self-limiting, proper treatment can help alleviate symptoms and speed up the healing process.
Yes. While arc-eye itself is a medical condition, employers have legal duties under the Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010 to assess and control exposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation in workplaces.
Arc-eye is more than just a health concern; it is also a legal issue for employers in the UK. The Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010 directly address the risks associated with UV radiation, including those from welding activities.
Under these regulations, employers must take appropriate steps to manage artificial optical radiation risks, particularly from sources such as welding arcs. Failure to adhere to these legal duties can lead to legal penalties and serious workplace injuries.
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, employers are required to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees. This general duty of care includes protecting workers from exposure to harmful UV radiation and preventing arc-eye injuries.
The 2022 update to the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Regulations expanded employer duties to include limb (b) workers who may also be exposed to risks like arc-eye. Employers must ensure that workers have access to the correct PPE, such as welding helmets or UV-resistant goggles, to reduce the risk of exposure.
Although standards like EN 169 (for eye protection) and EN 172 (for general UV protection) support compliance, they are not mandatory by law. However, following these standards helps employers ensure they are meeting legal obligations and providing adequate protection.
Employers must conduct a suitable and sufficient risk assessment to identify artificial optical radiation hazards, evaluate exposure levels, and implement control measures to eliminate or reduce ultraviolet risks so far as reasonably practicable.
To properly assess the risk of arc-eye, employers must follow a structured approach to ensure that all potential UV radiation hazards are identified and controlled. The process should be thorough and continuous, updated regularly to ensure compliance with current health and safety regulations.
The first step in the risk assessment is identifying all sources of UV radiation in the workplace. This includes, but is not limited to:
By understanding where UV radiation comes from, employers can assess how these sources might affect workers, either directly or indirectly.
Next, employers should assess who could be harmed by exposure to these UV sources. This includes:
The risk is not limited to just those performing the welding; bystanders who are not properly protected can also suffer from arc-eye if they are in close proximity.
Once the hazards and potentially affected workers are identified, employers must apply the hierarchy of controls to mitigate the risks:
Employers are required to document their risk assessments and ensure that all employees are trained on the risks of UV exposure and the correct use of PPE.
Regular training sessions help reinforce the importance of using protective gear and understanding how to identify hazards in the workplace.
In a construction site, a welder is performing welding tasks in an open area. Nearby, a maintenance worker is not wearing any protective eyewear, thinking the welding shield will protect everyone.
After completing the task, the maintenance worker begins to experience symptoms of arc-eye, highlighting the importance of implementing proper UV exposure controls and ensuring all workers are adequately protected.
The 2022 amendment to the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations expanded employer duties to include limb (b) workers. Updated HSE welding guidance reinforces exposure prevention beyond relying solely on protective eyewear.
In recent years, UK health and safety laws have undergone key changes to improve worker protection from various hazards, including arc-eye. The 2022 amendment to the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at Work Regulations was significant in broadening employer responsibilities, particularly by extending duties to include limb (b) workers, those who are not directly performing high-risk tasks but may still be exposed to workplace hazards.
This means that employers now need to ensure that all workers, including bystanders and support staff, are adequately protected from UV radiation sources, like welding arcs, through the use of appropriate PPE and safety measures.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has also updated its welding guidance, reinforcing the need for comprehensive exposure prevention strategies that go beyond simply wearing protective eyewear. The new guidance stresses the importance of screening, such as using welding curtains, and safe working distances in addition to PPE to limit exposure to UV radiation.
This is a response to the growing recognition that relying only on personal protective equipment (PPE) like welding helmets does not provide sufficient protection for all workers in a welding environment.
However, it’s important to note that there has been no new specific “arc-eye law” introduced. Rather, the focus is on broader PPE coverage and improving compliance with existing regulations, particularly around risk assessments and the documentation of protective measures.
Enforcement efforts have increasingly focused on risk assessment evidence and ensuring that employers implement effective controls for UV radiation exposure in the workplace.
Preventing arc-eye requires eliminating or controlling ultraviolet exposure at the source through screening, safe working distances, adequate supervision, and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) selected through risk assessment.
To prevent arc-eye effectively in the workplace, employers need to implement a combination of strategies that go beyond simply providing PPE. The focus should be on controlling UV radiation at its source, through engineering and administrative measures, as well as ensuring workers are adequately trained to identify and manage risks.
It’s important to remember that PPE alone is not sufficient. Comprehensive safety systems, including engineering controls and administrative practices, must be in place to effectively prevent arc-eye and other workplace injuries.
Arc-eye, or photokeratitis, is a medical condition caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It is typically temporary and heals within 24–72 hours. In the UK, arc-eye is covered by Artificial Optical Radiation (AOR) Regulations 2010, which require employers to assess and manage the risk of UV exposure in the workplace.
PPE alone is not enough; proper screening, safe work practices, and risk assessments are essential for protecting workers. Arc-eye is not a qualification but a workplace hazard. Employers must document safety measures and ensure compliance with the law to prevent workplace injuries.
A: No, arc-eye is a temporary condition. With proper care, such as lubricating drops and pain relief, symptoms usually resolve within 24-72 hours. If untreated or exposed to UV radiation repeatedly, it can cause long-term damage, but with proper protection, recovery is typically complete.
A: While arc-eye usually does not cause permanent blindness, it can cause temporary vision impairment such as blurred vision. Severe, repeated exposure to UV radiation without protection can increase the risk of cataracts or retinal damage in the long term.
A: Arc-eye typically lasts 24–72 hours as the cornea heals naturally. Symptoms like pain and light sensitivity may subside within a day, but full recovery can take up to three days. Persistent symptoms after this period should prompt medical consultation.
A: Yes, arc-eye is reportable under RIDDOR if it results in significant harm, such as long-term absence or a serious eye injury. If the injury affects workers’ health or productivity, employers must report it to the HSE.
A: Yes, bystanders near welding activities can get arc-eye from reflected UV radiation. Even if they are not directly involved in welding, exposure to reflected light or lack of proper shielding can cause this painful condition.
A: No, sunglasses are not sufficient to prevent arc-eye. While they provide some protection from UV radiation in sunlight, they do not offer adequate protection against the intense UV light produced by welding arcs. Specialised welding helmets or goggles are required for proper protection.
A: Yes, arc-eye is covered by the Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010. Employers must assess and control exposure to UV radiation, ensure appropriate PPE, and create safe work environments to prevent injuries like arc-eye.
A: The Artificial Optical Radiation Regulations 2010 require employers to assess and control the risks of UV radiation in the workplace. These regulations outline the need for UV radiation exposure limits, risk assessments, and appropriate protective measures to prevent conditions like arc-eye.
A: Yes, arc-eye can occur indoors, particularly in areas with welding operations, UV lamps, or other sources of UV radiation. Inadequate protection from welding arcs or reflected light can lead to exposure even in indoor environments.
A: Yes, employees should receive training on the risks of arc-eye, the use of PPE, and safe working practices to reduce UV exposure. Training helps ensure workers understand how to safeguard their eyes and the importance of using proper protective equipment.
A: No, welding shade numbers are not legally fixed, but they are recommended based on the intensity of UV radiation. Welding helmets should have appropriate filters (e.g., shade 9-13) depending on the welding method used. Standards like EN 169 guide the selection.
A: Arc-eye is caused by UV radiation exposure that leads to a corneal burn, while conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, usually caused by infection or allergies. Arc-eye causes intense pain, while conjunctivitis is often associated with redness and itchiness.
A: If symptoms of arc-eye last more than 48 hours, worsen, or cause vision problems, seek medical help. If foreign bodies are suspected or the pain becomes severe, professional treatment is necessary to prevent complications.
A: Typically, arc-eye does not cause permanent scarring. The condition is usually temporary, and the cornea heals without lasting damage. However, repeated exposure to UV radiation without protection can lead to long-term damage to the eye.
A: Yes, reflected UV light from surfaces like snow, water, or sand can cause arc-eye. Even if a person is not directly exposed to the welding arc, reflected radiation can cause eye injuries, making proper shielding essential for bystanders.
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