RE: uv dangers from uncovered gap

["Tesla list" <tesla-at-pupman-dot-com>]

Original poster: "Oxandale, Terry by way of Terry Fritz <twftesla-at-qwest-dot-net>" <Toxandale-at-SPP-dot-org>

I've heard this story many times over the years, but have not put a lot of
thought in it. I accidentally strike arcs too early in my welding (low amp
of 120 to 200 amps) many times each year and never had problems with my soft
contacts (but it's tough on the eyes as far as adjusting to the dark hood).

(Un)Terry

-----Original Message-----
From: Tesla list [mailto:tesla-at-pupman-dot-com]
Sent: Monday, June 04, 2001 12:45 PM
To: tesla-at-pupman-dot-com
Subject: uv dangers from uncovered gap


Original poster: "Robin Copini by way of Terry Fritz <twftesla-at-qwest-dot-net>"
<rcopini-at-merlin-dot-net.au>

Hi all,

 Just reading through another computer magazine, and found this very
interesting article. I will copy here verbatim.

 Electric Arcing.

 Arcing generates ultra violet radiation which causes skin damage akin
to severe sunburn. Molten metal particles from the arc can penetrate,
burn and lodge in the flesh. These effects are additional to any
radiated heat damage caused by the arc. Further effects of arcing can
easily be overlooked and an illustration of this has been where the
recipient of arcing has been wearing contact lenses with the following
consequences:

 'An electrical worker threw an uncovered electrical switch into a
closed position resulting in an electrical spark'.


 'A welder threw open his protective face shield to better position a
welding rod, the rod contacted metal and produced a spark'.

Nothing particularly unusual about these occurrences except both men
were wearing contact lenses. On returning home they removed the contact
lenses and the cornea of the eye was removed along with the lens. The
result was instant blindness! An investigation revealed in both cases
the electrical arc generated microwaves that had dried up the fluids
between the eye and the contact lens. The trauma is painless and the
individuals never knew the injury had occurred until they had removed
the contact lens along with the cornea. Clearly, therefore, it may be
very unwise to wear contact lenses when considering any electrical
testing or commissioning activity.

end quote.

 Now I am far from an expert in this, but I do demonstrate my coil to
those that ask to see it, and although I always ask concerning implants
etc I have never considered the above scenario. Considering my gap is
literally 'sunlight' bright when running, and considereing proximity
issues,  could someone please tell me whether the above is cause for
concern?

Best Regards

 Robin Copini.