Compact Fluorescent Bulbs Found to Emit Harmful Radiation (CBC)

[DrewWilson]

OK, I revised the headline, but whatever...

Health Canada testing compact fluorescent bulbs for harmful radiation

Health Canada says it is testing compact fluorescent bulbs to measure potentially harmful ultraviolet radiation and electromagnetic-field exposure levels.

It reportedly started the tests in December, and preliminary results are expected by late summer or early fall, Health Canada spokesman Philippe Laroche said Wednesday.

"Even though the bulk of scientific studies to date have not identified any health-related issues, Health Canada has decided to test the bulbs to acquire reliable technical data," said Laroche. "If the tests establish that there are reasons for concern, actions will be taken to force manufacturers to correct the situation."

The move follows a warning from British health officials over some types of compact fluorescent bulbs.

More... (http://www.cbc.ca/health/story/2009/01/21/bulbs.html)

Puts a whole new meaning for the term "bright idea", doesn't it?

[mountain_rage]

For the life of me I can't figure out why such a big deal is being made of these studies. Its freaking outputting U.V. rays OMG! Better cover up your windows and wrap yourself in duct tape. Hell, during the winter months studies have shown Canadians lack sun exposure, so the lights UV radiation may be a good thing for us rather than a bad thing. It could possibly help prevent seasonal affective disorder. But once again it seems the media is making people go into a frenzy.

[carpefile]

Most sources of visible light also produce UV and IR to varying degrees. No biggie.

The real issue with compact flourescents is their disposal. Unlike the incandescent bulbs they are meant to replace cfb's are hazardous waste because they contain mercury.
Actually enough that if you break one open you are exposed to about ten times the acceptable level of mercury as determined by the US EPA.