Is UV harmful?

• A. No
• B. Not sure
• C. Yes, it can burn the retina
• D. It depends on exposure

Answer: (C)

UV radiation has enough energy to cause eye tissue damage. While the eye is protected by the cornea and lens from most everyday UV, intense or prolonged exposure can injure ocular structures, including the retina. In situations like UV-C germicidal lamps or welding arcs, the risk is higher and can lead to photochemical damage that may affect vision. People can also experience acute corneal exposure (photokeratitis) from bright sunlight, but with sufficient exposure, deeper parts of the eye can be harmed over time, contributing to longer-term issues such as cataracts and retinal damage. In wastewater settings that use UV disinfection, proper shielding and UV-blocking eye protection are essential to prevent retinal burns. So, UV can be harmful to the retina.