Re: UV LIght Harmful?

in article [EMAIL PROTECTED], John E. Campano at [EMAIL PROTECTED]
wrote on 11/27/03 2:57 AM:

> I have a question about ultraviolet light.
> 
> I was under the impression that it is harmful to the eyes. At least people
> I've seen in tanning booths and university labs wear eye protection when
> being exposed to UV.
> 
> But recently my neighborhood bar installed "black lights" on the dance
> floor. It causes white clothing to glow. Unless I'm mistaken, that's UV
> light.
> 
> So is the bar putting its patrons at risk, exposing their eyes to UV without
> eye protection, or is it safe? Or are people who wear eye protection when
> working with UV being over cautious? What exactly is the risk of UV to your
> eyes if you can't see it? Thanks in advance.
> 
> 
Some old black light bulbs were merely incandescant lamps with a purplish
coating to keep visible light from getting out. The effects were not very
vivid. Those, in all liklihood, did little harm. If your pupil opened up
because of low visible light level, more infrared and UV could get in than
from a uncoated lamp.

Bill