Ultraviolet radiation and blue light from photofloods in television studios and theaters.

The intensities and spectra of ultraviolet and visible radiation were determined for different types of photofloods (575 to 5000 W) commonly used in television studios and theaters. The measurements were taken with a spectroradiometer at distances of 2.25, 4.5, or 10 m from the lamps. The measured spectral irradiance was weighted against biological hazard functions to determine the potential hazards. The results indicate that in television work, direct viewing of the light source should be limited to a few minutes per day to avoid potential photochemical injury to the retina. In addition, the luminances of the photofloods were calculated. Because the luminance of most of the tested photofloods was several orders of magnitude above the luminance level considered comfortable to the eyes, they can cause discomfort glare.