UV from CFLs?

Xringer · 07-26-12, 10:03 AM

Scientific study proves energy efficient bulbs can harm human skin cells - National Science & Space | Examiner.com

Heard about this on the news. Wonder if it's true.?.

If it proves to be even partly true, this is going to increase LED sales..

~~~

Almost all my remaining CFLs are installed inside light fixtures with frosted glass or plastic, filtering the light. (Which might be blocking out some of the UV).?.

The CFLs that are not in fixtures are either outdoors or, in rarely used basement areas.

Daox · 07-26-12, 12:31 PM

Meh, publicity stunt IMO. I've worked under FLs (not compact, but virtually the same) my entire life. I think I'd notice sunburn from them if it happened. Can't tell you the last time I was less than 8 inches from a light for hours on end. Seems pretty sensationalized to me.

Quote:

The European report had found that some CFLs emit UV radiation, which under prolonged exposures at short distances (less than 8 inches) may approach the workplace limit set to protect workers from skin and retinal damage.

Xringer · 07-26-12, 01:35 PM

I've had my hands right under a small FL for hundreds of hours, and never got sunburned hands.

But, if there is any evidence at all, that skin or eye damage can occur at 8",
then the question is going to be, at what distance would CFLs be 100% safe.?. 8 feet??

My guess is, if you are close enough, and the CFL is strong enough to give you UV burns,
you will be able to feel considerable heat from the lamp!
So, you won't be very comfortable while getting the burn.

menaus2 · 07-27-12, 04:59 PM

I can pretty much guarantee you get more UV exposure from the sun. There are florescent tubes made specifically for UV (blacklights) and there are no warnings associated with them. I wouldn't worry about this.

07-26-12, 10:03 AM	#1
Xringer Lex Parsimoniae Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Woburn, MA Posts: 4,918 Thanks: 114 Thanked 250 Times in 230 Posts	UV from CFLs? Scientific study proves energy efficient bulbs can harm human skin cells - National Science & Space \| Examiner.com Heard about this on the news. Wonder if it's true.?. If it proves to be even partly true, this is going to increase LED sales.. ~~~ Almost all my remaining CFLs are installed inside light fixtures with frosted glass or plastic, filtering the light. (Which might be blocking out some of the UV).?. The CFLs that are not in fixtures are either outdoors or, in rarely used basement areas. __________________ My hobby is installing & trying to repair mini-splits EPA 608 Type 1 Technician Certification ~ 5 lbs or less..

07-26-12, 01:35 PM	#3
Xringer Lex Parsimoniae Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Woburn, MA Posts: 4,918 Thanks: 114 Thanked 250 Times in 230 Posts	I've had my hands right under a small FL for hundreds of hours, and never got sunburned hands. But, if there is any evidence at all, that skin or eye damage can occur at 8", then the question is going to be, at what distance would CFLs be 100% safe.?. 8 feet?? My guess is, if you are close enough, and the CFL is strong enough to give you UV burns, you will be able to feel considerable heat from the lamp! So, you won't be very comfortable while getting the burn. __________________ My hobby is installing & trying to repair mini-splits EPA 608 Type 1 Technician Certification ~ 5 lbs or less..

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07-27-12, 04:59 PM	#4
menaus2 Apprentice EcoRenovator Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: Driftless Region, North America, Earth, Solar System, Orion Arm, Milky Way Galaxy,Virgo Supercluster Posts: 116 Thanks: 13 Thanked 35 Times in 25 Posts	I can pretty much guarantee you get more UV exposure from the sun. There are florescent tubes made specifically for UV (blacklights) and there are no warnings associated with them. I wouldn't worry about this.