Ocular hazards of light sources: review of current knowledge
Ham, W.T.
Journal of Occupational Medicine. Official Publication of the Industrial Medical Association 25(2): 101-103
1983
ISSN/ISBN: 0096-1736 PMID: 6834158 Document Number: 201452
Retinal damage is the most important hazard from light. There are three types of retinal damage classified as structural, thermal and photochemical; damage type depends on wavelength, power level and exposure time. Photochemical damage from blue light produces solar retinitis and is postulated to accelerate aging which leads to senile macular degeneration. The lens protects the retina from blue light and near ultraviolet (UV) but at the expense of cataractogenesis. Lens removal exposes retina to near UV that is six times more dangerous than blue light. Filters are recommended to protect lens and retina from blue light and near UV.