The Radiation Protection Division of the Health Protection Agency has been 
contracted by the European Commission to draft the non-binding guide to the 
Artificial Optical Radiation Directive (2006/25/EC). Whilst the guide is 
primarily aimed at managers of small and medium-sized enterprises, we hope 
it will also appeal to a wider audience.

We are trying to collate information on the following:

1. The range of artificial optical radiation sources that employees may be 
exposed to. Area lighting may only need to be considered if it is "special".

2. Whether there are work practices that mean employees are likely to 
exceed the ICNIRP exposure limits. For the first time in the UK, these 
limits will be legally binding.

3. Whether there are situations were employee exposure to optical radiation 
is likely but no information on the level of exposure is available - either 
because inadequate information is available from the supplier of the 
equipment or because no assessment of exposure has been made.

4. Which sources can be considered "safe" under all reasonably forseeable 
conditions.

We will be undertaking a number of on-site assessments to support the 
guide. If you think you have a unique or particularly complex exposure 
situation then please let us know.

We are also keen to identify examples of good practice, that you may wish 
to share. This can include engineered solutions, procedures or PPE.

We understand that the guide will be freely available in due course from 
the EU web site.

Any input will be welcomed.

John O'Hagan
Health Protection Agency
Radiation Protection Division
Chilton
Didcot
Oxon OX11 0RQ