In this paper, we examine sources of optical radiation and the effects of interaction of specific types of optical radiation i.e. ultra-violet, visible and infra-red, on a human organism. Next, the current criteria for assessing optical radiation hazards and contemporary measurement methods for establishing the total and effective intensity of irradiation with ultra-violet radiation, as well as the intensity of irradiation with infra-red and visible radiation. In the following section, examples of temporary working posts for welders were presented, as used during maintenance works aboard ships. Measurement results for optical radiation at the selected working post were then quoted, accounting for three specific exposure times. The last section contains conclusions drawn from measurement results and interviews with a group of ship hull welders

This paper presents the requirements for the method and extent of testing of non coherent optical radiation at work places, as well as the meters used for tests. The requirements are based on the current standards in the field of optical radiation. The scope of the exposure measurements are presented in conjunction with the current values of MDE. There is a description of the method of determining the angular dimension of radiation source α and how to calculate the effective source radiance from the measured effective irradiance. At the end, the paper presents the recommended frequency of testing and suggestions concerning the content of the study