Ultraviolet light hazards from transilluminators.

Abstract

Ultraviolet (UV) light boxes ("transilluminators") are commonly used in molecular biology laboratories for visualizing ethidium bromide-intercalated nucleic acids separated under electric current in electrophoretic gels. These devices typically have peak outputs at 254 or 312 nm, well within the UV-C and -B regions that are biologically active and capable of damaging skin. Field evaluations of laboratory transilluminators under actual conditions of use indicate that the UV light emitted from transilluminators is an identifiable and potentially significant occupational hazard for many laboratory workers, as is the high frequency of workstation surface contamination with ethidium bromide, a known mutagen. Fortunately, these hazards can be relatively easily controlled through worker training and the regular use of basic personal protective equipment.