Collection

Ultraviolet radiation (UVR)

Description of ultraviolet radiation (UVR), its sources and advice on protection from exposure.

• From: UK Health Security Agency
• Published: 11 December 2008

Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is:

• produced by the sun and some artificial sources
• invisible to the human eye

Solar UVR that can reach the earth’s surface is subdivided into 2 types:

• ultraviolet B (UVB)
• ultraviolet A (UVA), which is less energetic

Some people are also exposed to UVR:

• at work
• as a medical treatment
• by using sunbeds

More information on the effects of UVR, including advice on eye protection, can be found on NHS.UK.

Documents

• Ultraviolet radiation (UVR): clothing protection
  • 1 November 2007
  • Guidance
• Sunbeds: safety advice
  • 20 February 2023
  • Guidance
• Ultraviolet radiation and sunscreen
  • 1 January 2014
  • Guidance
• Non-laser optical radiation in entertainment: exposure assessment
  • 1 March 2011
  • Research and analysis

Published 11 December 2008