|
Energy saving light bulbs may cause skin cancer
LINK
Reading or working near to an energy-saving light bulb could be harmful to your health, experts have cautioned.
Certain types of fluorescent light bulbs - where the shape of the coil is clearly visible - may emit ultraviolet (UV) radiation that can damage the skin, new research suggests.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) issued a “precautionary” warning that the bulbs should not be used for long periods at distances closer than 30cm (one foot) away, such as in a desk or bedside lamp.
Tens of thousands of people suffering from medical conditions that make them sensitive to UV light and those who work with their hands under a light bulb, such as jewellery makers, could also be affected, it said.
Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) are gradually replacing traditional “incandescent” lighting as part of the Government’s strategy to tackle climate change.
Lighting is responsible about 14 per cent of electricity consumption across the European Union, and the bulbs have the potential to reduce energy use by 80 per cent
|
