Hygienic assessment of the laser radiation from installations used for the meteorological forecasting

Introduction. Flight safety is affected by many factors, such as air pressure, wind direction and speed, clouds, and precipitation. Atmospheric monitoring technologies are constantly being improved, and equipment is becoming more accurate, but at the same time potentially more dangerous for the public, especially in matters related to the use of powerful laser-based lidar installations. The purpose of the study is a hygienic assessment of laser equipment used for monitoring and forecasting the meteorological situation. Materials and methods. To achieve this goal, a set of hygienic studies was carried out. In total, more than 1,000 measurements were carried out from eight laser installations of various power and technical characteristics. Measurements of the laser radiation were performed in three spectral regions – visible, near and far infrared. Results. Most designs use a laser as an emitter, which generates short and powerful pulses. To select the laser wavelength, its function and direct purpose are taken into account, and Nd:YAG lasers with wavelengths from 355 nm to 1540 nm are used most often. Studies have shown that during lidar operation, radiation at a wavelength of 355 nm is safe for human eyes and skin, and at wavelengths of 532 nm and 1064 nm is dangerous for human vision and safe for skin. Lidar profilometers that generate radiation in the far infrared range are safe for human eyes and skin. Limitations. Limitations are related to the wavelengths under consideration and to the operating modes of the equipment. Conclusion. An analysis of the literature sources indicates a lack of data on the hygienic assessment of laser lidar systems and their immediate safety for humans. For the safe use of lidar installations, it is necessary to conduct a full-fledged hygienic assessment of the laser radiation used in them immediately before commissioning, taking into account the technical characteristics (power, pulse duration, beam diameter, etc.) and the combination of wavelengths used.