Non-Ionizing Radiation
Non-ionizing radiation refers to any type of electromagnetic radiation that does not carry enough energy to ionize atoms or molecules- that is, to completely remove an electron from an atom or molecule. Non-ionizing radiation is essential to life, but excessive exposures will cause tissue damage.
Non-ionizing radiation includes the spectrum of infrared (IR), microwave (MW), radio frequency (RF), extremely low frequency (ELF), and lower-energy ultraviolet radiation (UV). Lower-energy UV-C (shortwave UV, 100–280 nm) is non-ionizing, but it's very energetic and biologically active. It can still cause significant damage to cells and DNA, even though it doesn't ionize atoms.
Lasers commonly operate in the UV, visible, and IR frequencies.
While lower-energy UV (UVA/UVB) is primarily non-ionizing and causes indirect damage (e.g., via free radicals), higher-energy UV’s ionizing nature makes it significantly more potent and hazardous, necessitating strict control in both natural and artificial settings.
Workers performing welding and cutting are routinely exposed to the ultraviolet (UV) radiation given off by an arc or flame which can injure their eyes. For protection from this UV radiation, welders must use personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, goggles, welding helmets, or welding face shields.
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2-10. Which of the following describes non-ionizing radiation?
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