The UV spectroradiometer used at the University of Lille is presented, and its characterization and calibration are described. In order to detect possible shifts between calibrations, two different consistency tests are regularly performed on cloudless days. The erythemal dose rate obtained by integrating the weighted spectrum is compared to broadband measurements and modeling results. A Sun photometer provides the aerosol optical depth necessary as an input to the radiative transfer model. Results of these tests are presented for some cases; the general agreement is within 5%, which corresponds to the expected uncertainties. ¿ 2000 American Geophysical Union