VUV exposure systems based on flat microplasma light engines have been designed for safe and reliable operation when used properly and in accordance with operating instructions. Users are strongly encouraged to carefully read, understand, and follow all safety precautions described in this page and operation manual.

All exposure systems are driven by high voltage power supplies incorporated, in most cases, inside the systems' enclosure. External enclosures are shielded and safely protect users from electrical shock. Enclosures should never be opened by a user.

• No tools or items such as screw drivers, wires, screws, etc. should be inserted into openings of the exposure system to avoid the risk of electrical shock and system’s failure.

• No parts of the human body, tools, samples, or samples holders should ever be placed closer than 5 mm away from the light emitting surface while the system is in operation.

• No liquids should present on the surface of the light emitting surface while the system is in operation.

Spark hazard: do not operate the system on flammable surfaces or in the presence of flammable materials or gases.

All exposure systems emit invisible high intensity, high photon energy light, and must be managed using safety protocols developed for UV radiation. Exposure to light in UV spectrum has been shown to cause cancer and irreversible changes to skin cells, eyes, and other parts of the body.

Metal and plastic enclosures provide full optical isolation of the VUV light emission from the user and surrounding objects and must be used at all times to block direct, reflected, and scattered VUV radiation.

VUV exposure systems emit high energy photons capable of generating large quantities of ozone if operated in air or oxygen.

1. Exposure to high concentrations of ozone gas causes severe respiratory damage and may result in death.

1. VUV exposure systems must be purged with a dry nitrogen gas which meets minimum flow requirements specified in the operational manual before and during operation.

High intensity VUV sources have not been fully investigated and may interact with materials in unobserved and/or unexpected ways. It is the responsibility of the user to develop and implement safety procedures designed around the production of unknown materials. A formal risk management safety protocol is recommended. High-energy, high-power photon sources may generate toxic and/or lethal compounds when illuminating certain materials. Potential reaction product(s) must be determined as well as implementation of appropriate safety procedure and controls prior to illuminating unfamiliar or new materials. Unintended photo-induced reactions between materials are possible. Evaluate all materials present and determine potential reaction pathways and reaction products. Implement appropriate safety procedures and controls prior to illuminating potentially hazardous materials.