Concern over emissions from compact fluorescent lights

New research by the Health Protection Agency in the UK has shown that some energy-saving compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) can emit ultraviolet radiation at levels that, under certain conditions of use, can result in exposures higher than guideline levels. The agency and government departments are calling on the European Union, relevant product standards bodies and the lighting industry to consider how product standards for lights can be tightened up.

From its findings, the agency is recommending precautionary measures for the use of certain types of CFLs. The agency's view is that open (single envelope) CFLs should not be used where people are in close proximity (closer than 30 cm) to the bare light bulb for over one hour a day. In such situations, open CFLs should be replaced by encapsulated (double envelope) types. Alternatively, the lamp should be moved so that it is at least 30 cm away.

The agency's chief executive, Justin McCracken, said: “People should not be thinking of removing these energy-saving light bulbs. We are advising people to avoid using the open light bulbs for prolonged close work until the problem is sorted out and to use encapsulated bulbs instead. Where people are not likely to be very close to the bulbs for any length of time, all types of CFL bulbs are safe to use.”

Not all open fluorescent light bulbs have significant UVR emissions, but if people are in very close proximity to some of them, the exposure to bare skin is like being outside in direct sunlight. For example, agency scientists found that when very close (2 cm) to some open CFLs, the UVR level can be equivalent to that experienced outside on a sunny day in summer, so some precaution is warranted. When further away (over 30 cm), the UVR level is much lower and therefore not a concern.

Encapsulated CFLs, which look similar to traditional domestic light bulbs, do not emit significant amounts of UVR. The larger long-tube design fluorescent lights, commonly used in offices and workplaces for many years, can also be used on ceilings without any special precautionary measures.

As a result of the study, the UK government is pressing the EU to take account of the findings in future European legislation.

Exposure to UVR can cause particular problems for people suffering from some medical conditions, including Lupus. The agency, the UK government and the lighting industry have met with patient groups to give advice on the use of CFL bulbs and the availability of new technologies for low-energy lighting.