Assessment of health consequences of occupational exposure to ultraviolet radiation in steel industry welders

Backgrounds & welding is one of the major processes used in industry. Occupational exposure to ultraviolet radiation causes the risk factors for eye and skin disorders in welders. The aim of this study was to determine the level of exposure of ultraviolet (UV) radiation and health consequences arising among welding steel of Fars industry. In the present analytical-descriptive cross-sectional study by using a UV meter, the intensity of UV radiation on the wrist with heavy metal structures activity was measured. The study population were 400 subjects, including 200 welders (exposed group) and 200 non-welders (not exposure), respectively.The symptoms of cataracts, keratoconjunctivitis, dermatitis, melanoma and erythema caused by welding were collected using a standardized questionnaire with Cronbach's alpha of 0.76. Data were analyzed using chi-square and t-tests. The mean, standard deviation, maximum and minimum of UV on wrist of welders were 0.362, 0.346, 1.27 and 0.01 respectively. Comparing symptoms of cataracts, keratoconjunctivitis, dermatitis and erythema the prevalence of these symptoms were observed. Duration of ultraviolet rays in welders was above the threshold limit of the contact in Iran. Considering the prevalence of eye and skin disorders in welders, reducing the duration of exposure to ultraviolet radiation control and the use of proper personal protective equipment is necessary.