Ultraviolet radiation dosimetry using radiochromic film for extended dose range applications and estimating eye exposure

Abstract Radiochromic films are a reliable tool for quantifying ultraviolet exposure dose. When used without modification, these films enable a simple, low-cost measurement of accumulated dose over time which is amenable to personal exposure monitoring. This study presents two methods to expand the utility of these films for dosimetry applications. One approach utilized an ultraviolet radiation attenuator to effectively extend the usable dose range of radiochromic films. The attenuators have the added advantage of obscuring the film from view so the color change of the film due to increasing exposure dose is not visible. The practical use of these films with attenuators over prolonged exposure periods is highlighted as a case study in this manuscript. A second modification is the addition of a structure to limit the dose received by the film to an 80° field of view. Limiting the field of view of the film dosemeter provides for an estimate of the dose received by the eyes, accounting for protection provided by the ocular cavity, and the use of a dosemeter with a restricted field of view is included in recommendations for commissioning of ultraviolet lighting installations. Radiochromic films, when used in conjunction with these tools, offer an effective solution for extended dose ranges and eye-specific ultraviolet dose measurement in indoor spaces utilizing germicidal ultraviolet technologies.