The Environment, Health and Safety Division coordinates assessments and controls of non-ionizing radiation (NIR) in order to provide a safe working environment for staff (Berkeley Lab employees, casual and participating visitors, affiliates, and subcontractors). NIR exposure hazards that are addressed include:
- Visible Light and Infrared Radiation
- Magnetic Fields
- Radio Frequency and Microwave Radiation
- Artificial ultraviolet (UV) radiation
- Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
Note: Laser and acoustic (noise) exposures are covered separately.
Contact us to arrange or perform a NIR assessment; establish, develop, and review controls; and investigate all instances of suspected exposure.
Also refer to PUB-3000, Chapter 43 Non-ionizing Radiation
What You Need to Do if You Have Devices Generating NIR
If you have devices that are generating non-ionizing radiation, there are two key actions to take:
- Update your Work Planning and Control Activities. *
Note: this does not apply to visitors and guests (e.g. external ALS users) who do not need a Work Planning and Control Activity. - Complete a hazard assessment.
This is a preliminary evaluation of the activity to determine if a more comprehensive exposure assessment is required. Hazard assessments can be performed by work leads, supervisors, workers or an EHS professional. Contact the NIR point of contact if assistance with the evaluation is needed.
*Work Planning and Control (WPC) Activity – This is a formal authorization and a safety document that describes the hazards of, and controls for devices generating NIR in your work area. Your Activity Lead is responsible to ensure its preparation. You must read and understand it and you are required to comply with its provisions. NIR WPC Activities are Risk Level 2 and are renewed bi-annually.