Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010, No. 1140 (as amended)

The Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010 is a set of legal guidelines established in the United Kingdom. Its primary purpose is to ensure the safety and protection of workers who may be exposed to artificial optical radiation (AOR) in their workplace.

The regulations stipulate several key requirements:

1. Risk Assessment: Employers are required to conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential sources of artificial optical radiation and evaluate the associated risks to their employees.
2. Preventative Measures: Employers must implement appropriate measures to control exposure to AOR, such as using engineering controls, administrative controls, or providing personal protective equipment (PPE) where necessary.
3. Information and Training: Employers are obligated to provide adequate information and training to employees about the risks associated with AOR exposure, as well as the preventive measures in place.
4. Health Surveillance: In cases where there is a potential risk to health from AOR exposure, employers are required to establish health surveillance systems to monitor the health of exposed employees.
5. Monitoring and Compliance: Employers must regularly monitor and review exposure levels to ensure compliance with the prescribed exposure limits.

These regulations apply to a wide range of workplaces and activities where artificial optical radiation is used, including but not limited to:

• Manufacturing and Industry: Industries involving lasers, welding, or other processes that emit artificial optical radiation.
• Healthcare: Medical facilities using lasers for surgical procedures or diagnostic purposes.
• Research and Development: Laboratories and facilities conducting experiments involving lasers or other AOR sources.
• Entertainment and Events: Stage productions, concerts, and events using lasers for visual effects.

Overall, the Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010 aims to safeguard the health and well-being of employees who may be exposed to artificial optical radiation during the course of their work activities.

The Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010 mandates that employers conduct a thorough assessment of the risks associated with artificial optical radiation (AOR) exposure in the workplace. This assessment involves gathering specific types of evidence to ensure compliance with the regulations. Here are the key evidence requirements:

1. Identification of AOR Sources: Employers must provide evidence demonstrating a comprehensive identification of all potential sources of artificial optical radiation in the workplace. This includes a detailed inventory of equipment and processes that emit AOR.
2. Measurement of AOR Levels: Employers are required to provide evidence of measurements or calculations of the actual levels of artificial optical radiation emitted by the identified sources. This evidence should be obtained using appropriate measuring instruments or methodologies.
3. Exposure Duration and Frequency: Employers need to gather evidence regarding the duration and frequency of employee exposure to artificial optical radiation. This may include records of work schedules, tasks, and the proximity of employees to AOR-emitting equipment.
4. Risk Assessment Documentation: Employers must maintain comprehensive documentation of the risk assessment process, including records of identified hazards, the evaluation of risks, and the implementation of control measures.
5. Selection and Effectiveness of Control Measures: Evidence should be provided regarding the selection and effectiveness of control measures implemented to mitigate AOR exposure. This may include documentation of engineering controls, administrative measures, and personal protective equipment (PPE) used.
6. Training Records: Employers must maintain records demonstrating that employees have received appropriate training on the risks associated with AOR exposure, as well as the preventive measures in place.
7. Health Surveillance Documentation: In cases where health surveillance is required due to potential health risks from AOR exposure, employers must maintain records of health assessments, examinations, and any identified health effects related to AOR exposure.
8. Monitoring and Inspection Records: Employers should provide evidence of regular monitoring and inspection activities conducted to ensure compliance with exposure limits and the effectiveness of control measures.
9. Record Retention: The regulations require employers to retain all relevant records related to AOR risk assessment, control measures, training, and health surveillance for a specified period (usually several years) to demonstrate compliance with the regulations.

By gathering and maintaining this evidence, employers can demonstrate their adherence to the Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010 and ensure the safety and well-being of their employees in relation to AOR exposure.