Ocular risks assessment in a central receiver solar power facility based on measured data of direct solar radiation

Abstract

Among the Concentrated Solar Power technologies, central receiver systems (CRS) is the technology moving to the forefront in market penetration. CRS requires the use of heliostats oriented toward the central receiver in order to concentrate solar radiation. The excess of light due to the reflection of the sunlight on the heliostats' surface and the brightness of the receiver are considered as possible situations of risk for the eye. The paper briefly outlines the physiological response to solar radiation subjected to momentary ocular exposures. This will be followed by the description of health impairments and the presentation of the methodology and safety doses. A case of study based on direct solar radiation measurements, is foreseen. Two scenarios were evaluated, the action of seeing directly to a heliostats' surface and the action of seeing the reflected radiation from the receiver. In the case of seeing the brightness from receiver, there exist a low potential to cause a temporary effect on the eye. Besides, a person that is looking at heliostat surface has a huge potential to present a temporary effect (afterimage). The final section of the study will present and discussed the results obtained from the analysis of the case of study and provide some recommendations. The investigation aims to contribute with information directed to environmental scientists, standard developers and the solar industry that could improve/develop safety procedures directed toward the occupational health and safety within solar energy applications.