SUNTEST - A CHEMICAL UVB RADIATION DOSIMETER

A simple disposable chemical UVB radiation dosimeter with silver-mercu ry-oxalate suspension, SUNTEST, was developed for use by the general p ublic. Its spectral sensitivity curve closely matches the erythemal ac tion spectrum. SUNTEST takes account of the variables influencing the length of sunbathing. The dose of solar UV radiation can be evaluated from the darkening of the dosimeter, from white to dark brown. On the basis of the results of a 5 min exposure, recommendations are given fo r safe exposure times (which do not produce sunburn) for different ski n types. Regular use of this simple UVB dosimeter will contribute to t he prevention of acute adverse effects of solar exposure; like any lim itation of UV exposures, it may be expected to reduce also the late ad verse effects, including skin malignancies.