Re: uv dangers from uncovered gap

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

Original poster: "Metlicka Marc by way of Terry Fritz <twftesla-at-qwest-dot-net>" <mystuffs-at-orwell-dot-net>

robin,
i can't say how concerned others should be, but thanks to your post, i
will be much more careful coiling and welding from now on. i wear
contacts.
marc m.
geek #1055

Tesla list wrote:
> 
> 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.