Prolonged exposure to infrared (IR) radiation can cause health risks because IR is a form of heat energy that penetrates the skin and eyes. While moderate IR exposure is generally harmless (like warmth from the sun), high-intensity or long-duration exposure can lead to problems:
1. Skin Effects
- Thermal Burns – Intense IR can overheat skin tissue, causing burns.
- Premature Skin Aging – Chronic heat exposure can damage collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles.
- Erythema ab igne – A net-like skin discoloration caused by repeated exposure to a heat source (e.g., heaters, industrial work).
2. Eye Damage
- Corneal Burns – Very high IR intensity can overheat the cornea.
- Cataracts – Prolonged IR exposure in industrial jobs (glass blowing, metalworking) has been linked to “glassblower’s cataracts,” where lens proteins are damaged by heat.
- Retinal Injury – Extremely intense near-IR can reach the retina and cause damage.
3. Heat Stress
- Working in high IR environments (foundries, kilns) can contribute to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
4. Occupational Hazards
- Workers in glass manufacturing, foundries, welding, and similar industries face the highest risks and require protective eyewear and clothing.