Optical radiation (visible light, UV and infrared light) only implies a risk with very strong light sources (flash lights, lasers) and in the industrial work environment. Lamps for house, garden and desk lighting usually belong to the risk group 0 (no risk in normal circumstances). Some lamps belong to risk group 1-3 and may imply a risk. Mostly it is regarding a blue light damage to the retina. Therefore, read the instructions for use of a lamp carefully. Wrong installation or improper use of a lamp gives a higher exposure and may imply a risk.
Recently the SCENIHR (Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks) has taken a close look at the health risks of current lighting sources. According to SCENIHR there are a few situations where one should pay attention.
In general
Do not stare into the bright light of led car headlights, led bike lights and led pocket torches. The light of cold white leds contain relatively much blue light, which may imply a health risk.
For desk lighting and for precise work (drawers, dentists, watchmakers, …) stronger lamps are used and/or they are placed somewhat closer by. As a result the skin is exposed for a long time to an increased amount of UV light (in case of tubular or compact fluorescence lamps). However, the total amount of exposure of the skin to the UV radiation by a lamp belonging to the risk group 0, is rather limited. The impact on a yearly basis is estimated by the SCENIHR to be equivalent to maximum 3-5 sunny vacation days at the Mediterranean Sea.
Night light (regardless the type of lamp) appears to be disadvantageous for sleep and the general state of mind. For example, when late in the evening one still looks for a long while at a screen (of a tv, computer, tablet or smartphone), this may disturb the biological clock of our body. If this becomes a habit, it can also increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, gastro-intestinal disorders and even increase the risk of breast cancer.
Besides, remember that most damage to skin and eyes is caused by the sun. A good sun cream and sun glasses with UV filter in the summer are no luxury. You will find more information on www.soleilmalin.be or www.veiligindezon.be.
Persons with a photosensitive skin
Persons with a pathological sensitivity to light (photodermatosis) can experience a worsening of symptoms under the influence of lamps which give blue or UV light. For these persons the use of leds with a warm white light or CFL lamps with a double envelope is a better option. After all, a warm white lamp radiates a lot less blue light. A double envelope largely blocks the UV emissions.
Persons with certain eye conditions (retina dystrophy)
Persons with certain forms of hereditary retina degeneration (such as the Stargardt disease) should be aware of blue light hazard. Wearing glasses with special lenses which block the UV and blue light (coming from the sun or lamps), is recommended.
Photo sensitisation
Under the influence of certain medicines, people can become extra sensitive to the UV and blue light. Examples of these medicines are antibiotics from the tetracycline group, some antidepressants, contraception pills, medicine against diabetes and too high blood pressure (anti-hypertension medicines). This may also happen with cancer patients who undergo a photodynamic therapy (therapy based on light). With these persons the light of CFL or led lamps can cause a skin reaction (redness or even blisters).
You can download all information of this section in its entirety as a pdf document (info sheet “Lamps and radiation”).