Evaluation of Infrared Radiation and Occupational Cataracts in Bakeries in Qom Province, Iran

Nowadays, ionizing and non-ionizing radiation seems to have a vital role in all aspects of human life. However, radiations such as infrared radiation (IR) adversely affect the human visual system. This study aimed to evaluate IR exposure and occupational cataracts in the selected traditional and automatic bakeries in Qom Province, Iran.

This cross-sectional study was conducted in traditional and modern bakeries with 306 workers. Demographic data were collected using a demographic questionnaire. IR measurement was done using the Hagner EC1-IR digital radiometer at the eye height and in the first and last hours of the workday. The obtained data were analyzed with statistical tests of the Chi-square, Fisher exact, 1-way ANOVA, and independent t test in SPSS software v. 20.

According to the obtained results, 16.1% of the workstations had a high level of exposure to IR, and 20.3% of workers were suffering from cataracts. The results showed a significant correlation between the exposure level and jobs as well as tasks and working hours (P<0.05). Also, a significant correlation was observed between the risk of cataracts and the exposure level, workstation type, age, and experience (P<0.05). However, no significant difference was observed between the type of bakeries and the risk of cataracts (P=0.59).

Based on our findings, nearly one-sixth of the surveyed stations were higher than the standard limit in terms of IR measurement, and nearly one-fifth of workers were suffering from cataracts. The results indicated that due to the long-term exposure of bakery workers to IR, it is necessary to plan and implement effective control measures in bakeries.