T.O. 33B-1-12-81require a specific output or consistency between bulbs. Consequently, new bulbs can vary by as much as50% in their initial output. This means that with two new bulbs, one may have an intensity that isdouble that of the other without either being defective. New black light bulbs SHALL be tested foroutput before being used. Intensity of new bulbs SHALL be at least 1000 µw/cm2 at a distance of 15inches from the outside face of the filter.b. Line Voltage Variations. Black light intensity varies almost linearly with line voltage. A commonmisconception is that the black light ballast or transformer will regulate line variations. This is nottrue. Below approximately 90 volts, the lamps will not sustain the mercury arc and the lamp willextinguish. It will not restart until it has cooled. Black light lamps should be connected to stable powersources. If none are available and line voltage fluctuates, a constant potential transformer should beused.c. Service and Aging Variations. During use, dust and dirt will collect on both the bulb face and filter.Even small amounts will reduce the intensity and, if allowed to build up, can result in a 10-folddecrease. The bulb face and filter SHALL be kept clean. The output of black light bulbs will vary dueto changes in operating characteristics. As the bulb ages, the intensity will gradually decrease.Operating hours will decrease output. Of greater significance is the number of bulb starts. A singlestart can equate to 2 or 3 hours of continuous use on operating life. Black lights that will be usedperiodically during the day should be allowed to remain on until their last use of the day. This practicewill extend the useful bulb life.2.7.4.1.8 BlackLightHazards.WARNINGProlonged direct exposure of hands to the filtered blacklight main beam may beharmful. Suitable nonfluorescent gloves SHALL be worn when exposing hands tothe main beam for extended periods (e.g.: exceeding two hours per day).The temperature of some operating black light bulbs reaches 750°F (399°C) or moreduring operation. This is above the ignition or flash point of fuel vapors. Thesevapors will burst into flame if they contact the bulb. These black lights SHALLNOT be operated when flammable vapors are present.The bulb temperature also heats the external surfaces of the lamp housing. Thetemperature is not high enough to be visually apparent, but is high enough to causesevere burns with even momentary contact of exposed body surfaces. Extreme caremust be exercised to prevent contacting the housing with any part of the body.2.7.4.1.9 BlackLightPhysiologicalEffects.WARNINGUnfiltered ultraviolet radiation can be harmful to the eyes and skin. Black lightbulbs SHALL NOT be operated without filters. Cracked, chipped, or ill-fittingfilters SHALL be replaced before using the lamp.
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