Let me clarify. I am preparing the risk assessment document for artificial optical radiation (AOR) in a welding school. In this school, there are five different welding stations, where five different students were using the same welding machine model, at the same amperage, and with exactly the same settings.
The measurements of the optical radiation emitted during welding were carried out by a colleague, not by me. However, the results obtained are drastically different from one another, and I can’t understand why.
I am wondering whether the measurement angle could have such a significant influence on the results, or if there are other parameters I may be overlooking.
I attach here the results of the measurements.
Reasons for the large variation in radiation measurements from welding:
Measurement angle and distance: The greatest impact. Radiation from the welding arc is not uniform. A slight change in the angle or distance of the measuring device relative to the arc leads to very different results (see the attached images, which show significant differences in values and evaluations).
Human factors and welding technique: Even with the same machine and settings, the student's skill and hand movement vary, affecting the intensity and stability of the arc.
Surrounding environment: Reflections from nearby surfaces can increase the radiation received.
Conclusion: The measurement angle is the most likely cause of the discrepancy. To avoid this, the distance and angle must be precisely standardized during measurement, and it is preferable to repeat the measurement according to a strict protocol.
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