Very often, people refuse to use energy-saving lamps because of their alleged harm and danger to health. It is time to debunk myths and restore justice. Let’s figure out whether energy-saving lamps are really harmful to human health?
As you know, the average person is conservative by nature. Things that are difficult to explain and understand at first glance often seem dangerous and harmful. That is why all kinds of achievements of science and technology often meet such resistance from the population: who knows what these scientists have come up with?
So with energy-saving lamps, despite all their advantages (economy, reliability, etc.), the most typical story came out. As soon as they appeared in lampshades and on store shelves, the media was filled with headlines about the incredible dangers of fluorescent lighting. But is it fair? Are gas-discharge light sources really harmful to the eyes, cause allergies, provoke the development of migraines and the growth of cancer cells? Let’s try to figure it out.
Myth #1: energy-saving lamps poison people with mercury vapors
The first argument of the opponents of gas discharge lamps: since mercury is contained in CFL (compact fluorescent lamp), the gradual poisoning of the body by its vapors cannot be avoided. According to this logic, we can say that since the battery capacities of smartphones and tablets are filled with acid, the user will sooner or later get an acid burn. Sounds strange, doesn’t it?
Yes, mercury is indeed used in fluorescent lamps. But there are about 2-4 mg of it there. For comparison, in standard glass thermometers, which can be found in any pharmacy, there is 500 times more mercury (2 g). To achieve the same amount of toxic vapor that will be in the air if you accidentally drop the thermometer and damage the protective bulb, you need to break 500-1000 energy-saving lamps at the same time. And do not think to open the windows at the same time, otherwise you will definitely not be able to exceed the maximum allowable norm.
Myth No. 2: the stroboscopic effect of lamps deteriorates vision and causes headaches
Flickering with a frequency of 50 Hz, characteristic of fluorescent lamps operating according to EMPR technology (using electromagnetic start-up control equipment), really has a negative effect on human health. At the same time, the person himself may not notice the stroboscopic effect present during illumination. Among the possible reactions of the body are increased excitability, eye fatigue, headache, insomnia, etc.
The manufacturers, having first learned from doctors about this state of affairs, did not refuse to produce gas-discharge lamps. But, of course, they invested in research and modernization of technologies. Therefore, now fluorescent lamps are equipped with electronic start-up control equipment (EPRA). They flicker at a frequency from 3 to 10 kHz. And, accordingly, no harm is done to the nervous system.
Myth #3: energy-saving lamps emit ultraviolet radiation
In small doses, ultraviolet is very useful for humans. It starts the process of producing vitamin D in the body, which is necessary for the normal development and functioning of our body. Its lack leads to hormonal failures, a decrease in the rate of formation and restoration of bone tissue, vitamin deficiency, etc.
But, unfortunately, you will not be able to overcome the lack of vitamin D simply by screwing a fluorescent light bulb into the lamp holder. Why? But because the material from which it is made does not pass ultraviolet rays. Ultraviolet lamps used in hospitals and solariums are made of special glass that undergoes additional processing. It is much more expensive than usual and is usually not used for mass production of energy-saving devices.
Myth #4: Fluorescent lamps emit too much electromagnetic radiation
Every day, a person interacts with a huge number of objects that emit electromagnetic waves. These include microwave ovens, TVs, computers, mobile phones, refrigerators, electric stoves, etc. The list goes on and on.
Compared to all this, the standard level of radiation typical of energy-saving lamps looks simply ridiculous. Do you want to get rid of the excessive amount of electromagnetic waves in the space around you? Be consistent: throw away your phone, quit your job, sell your apartment and move to a remote village without electricity. If anything, it’s sarcasm.
Myth No. 5: energy-saving lamps disrupt melatonin production in people
Also, some claim that the damage of fluorescent lamps affects the development of dangerous diseases (breast and / or skin cancer, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, etc.).
According to scientists from the British Health Protection Agency (Health Protection Agency), fluorescent lamps can really cause minor problems for people with very sensitive skin. That’s just in order to earn swelling, itching or redness, you need to be at a distance of no more than 30 centimeters from the lamp for several hours. At the same time, such irritation does not provoke an increase in the number of cancer cells. It quickly disappears as soon as the process of improvised “light exposure” stops.
Myth No. 6: energy-saving lamps provoke load fluctuations in the electrical network, which leads to short circuits and fires
The inconsistency of the power factor of fluorescent lamps with a similar parameter of incandescent lamps, for which domestic power grids are designed, is leveled by special electronic correctors. As a rule, devices operating on EPRA technology are equipped with them. So, if you are afraid of short circuits and think that it is better to play it safe once again, buy lamps from this category.
New technologies – in every house
Fluorescent lamps are no worse than Illich’s light bulbs. This is a fact. They are absolutely safe and reliable. If all operating conditions declared by the manufacturer are observed, they can burn for several years in a row, saving you from unnecessary costs and problems.
The main thing is to make the right choice at the time of purchase. Do not try to save money by buying gas discharge lamps without markings and warranty coupons. Lamps of unknown manufacture are often characterized by low build quality. So, they really pose a danger to the life and health of the consumer.