I recently read an article from the CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation) saying that Health Canada (sort of an FDA equivalent) has begun testing compact fluorescent bulbs to measure potentially harmful UV radiation and electromagnetic-field exposure levels. Their impetus for conducting the study was an October 2008 warning from the United Kingdom’s Health Protection Agency over “open” or “single envelope” bulbs (those having a corkscrew-like or tube-like design). The Agency’s research showed thatsome CFLs can emit UV radiation “at levels that, under certain conditions of use, can result in exposures higher than guideline levels.”


As a result of these finding the Agency is recommending that “bare” CFLs not be used in close proximity (closer than 30cm or 1 ft) for over 1 hour a day. “Bare” CFLs are those that are not encapsulated (double envelope). The outer glass container of the double envelope CFLs (easily recognizable as they look more light an incandescent light bulb) absorbs ultraviolet radiation and therefore no precautionary measures are needed.


Health Canada says that their own study will show results sometime in late summer or early fall and commented that “If the tests establish that there are reasons for concern, actions will be taken to force manufacturers to correct the situation.”


Personally, I am surprised that this is an issue all of a sudden. I would have thought that manufacturing standards for CFLs would limit the amount of UV and electromagnetic radiation emitted. It’s incredible that this potential risk was previously unknown. So how serious are the risks? In my opinion, in the majority of situations CFL bulb are contained with a fixture that contains glass or cloth that would provide an adequate shield for UV radiation. In those instances where your light fixture is exposed or you are using a CFL in a desk lamp I would suggest removing it an replacing it with an encapsulated CFL. Additionally, try to purchase only encapsulated CFLs in the future - so you don’t have to worry at all.


Unfortunately, this new potential heath risk for CFLs (regardless of how minor the risk is) combined with fears over their mercury content may delay the demise of the energy inefficient incandescent bulb and will likely delay the implementation of future energy saving innovations.