British Health Protection Agency Issues Caution on Radiation from Compact Fluorescents

The British Health Protection Agency (HPA) called for some precautionary measures to be taken when using environmentally-friendly compact fluorescent lights. In some cases, these lights can expose users to ultra violet radiation beyond recommended exposure limits. The agency statement also said that people need not remove the bulbs from their homes but should limit their proximity to un-encapsulated bulbs. Users should remain at least one foot from these bulbs and should not use them for close work. The agency and government departments also called on the European Union, relevant standards bodies, and the lighting industry to consider how standards for these products can be improved. The media release and details on the research underlying this caution can be found on the HPA website.