R-F HAZARDS TO PERSONNEL

to NEETS, Module 14, Introduction to Micro- electronics. ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION HAZARDS The electromagnetic spectrum encompasses everyday-use items from commercial power to medical x-rays, as shown in figure 3-2. In this area we will discuss radio frequency radiation and optical radiation. R-F HAZARDS TO PERSONNEL Radiation from antennas fed by high powered rf transmitters has the potential for injuring personnel who happen to be near the radiating antennas. Transmitters aboard ships, on aircraft, at shore stations, and microwave ovens found both aboard ships and ashore are potential sources of harmful radiation. At some frequencies, exposure to excessive levels of rf radiation will not produce a noticeable sensation of pain or discomfort to give warning that injury may be occurring. Radiated rf energy can also result in rf burns when metal objects with induced high rf voltage levels are touched. An rf burn is the result of current flowing through the body when parts of the body are in contact with rf voltages induced in conductive objects. The current produces heat as it passes through the resistance of the skin. The effect of the heat on a person ranges from warmth to painful burns. LASER HAZARDS TO PERSONNEL The word laser is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. A laser is basically a concentrated beam of optical radiation. As technology increases, the use of laser equipment will increase for purposes ranging from industrial to medical to military (both offensive and defensive). The effects that lasers can have on your eyes range from inflammation of the cornea to corneal burn and on your skin from accelerated skin aging to skin burn. If you are involved with the use of lasers at your command, be sure to follow all safety precautions for the class of laser in use and all directions given to you by your command’s Laser Safety Officer. Lasers will be discussed in greater detail in volume 9 of this series. We recommend that you become familiar with the contents of NAVSEA OP 3565/NAVAIR 16-1-529, Technical Manual, Electromagnetic Radiation Hazards (U), (Hazards to Personnel, Fuel, and Other Flammable Material) (U). We also recommend that you Figure 3-2.—Electromagnetic spectrum. 3 - 6