Are LEDs Safe To Use?

LEDs (Light-Emitting Diodes) have quickly become the most popular choice for modern lighting technology due to their energy efficiency and long lifespan.  However there are some concerns that have been raised about them being safe to use and if they have any potential side effects for a person’s health. 

In short, LEDs are safe to use as long as they have been manufactured; installed and used correctly.  This especially the case for more modern LED lights.  They pose no greater risk than other types of lighting technology.  You can also purchase warm white colour LEDs for most lights if you have concerns about the colour being too bright.  

1. General Safety and Health Concerns

1.1 Do LEDs emit harmful radiation?

LEDs primarily emit visible light.  Unless you are purchasing medical or industrial types of light there is no need to be concerned about them emitting harmful radiation. 

• UV Radiation: Most standard household and commercial LED lights emit a negligible amount of UV light that is far less than natural sunlight and fluorescent bulbs. 
• IR Radiation (Heat): LEDs are cool to the touch because they emit very little heat when they are in operation.  The small amount of heat generated is dissipated through a heatsink at the base of the bulb.  They should not overheat under normal use. 

1.2 Are LED lights a fire hazard?

No, LEDs are significantly safer than older types of bulbs from a fire perspective.  This includes Incandescent; Halogen and Fluorescent lighting technology.  

2. Blue Light Exposure

A common concern with LEDs relates to their high color temperature, this however is not an immediate feature of LED lights as they are available in the majority of colour temperatures.  The most common colour temperatures are Warm white (2700-3000k); Cool white (4000k) and Daylight (6000-6500k).  If you are looking for a light that matches older lighting technologies we would suggest that you purchase Warm White.

2.1 What is "Blue Light Hazard"?

The term "Blue light hazard" refers to the potential for high-intensity, short-wavelength blue light to cause photochemical damage to the retina.  This is a real risk when looking directly at extremely bright, focused blue light sources, such as high-powered LED flashlights, theatrical lighting, or industrial lasers.  The light would be rated at approximately 400-500nm for this to be something to take precautionary measures against.  

This would not be a concern for a standard LED bulb.  The intensity of light that comes from a standard LED bulb viewed at normal distances (i.e. 6ft away) is far below the threshold required to cause damage to retinas.  LED lights sold for general lighting are also required to meet international safety standards before they can be sold.  You might see the term “IEC 62471” on the bulb or the packaging which would be an indication of this.  

2.3 How can I minimize blue light exposure from LEDs?

While the direct risk is low, it has been found that high levels of blue light can interfere with the body's natural circadian rhythm by suppressing melatonin production, especially in the evenings.  This can be avoided by choosing warmer colours of lights which will be labelled as Warm White or Very Warm White.  If you want to avoid blue light exposure you should avoid buying bulbs labelled as Cool White or Daylight.  

You can further minimise blue light exposure by using a dimmer switch with your lighting so that you can reduce it in the evening and by avoiding bright screens before going to bed.  This would include phones, tablets and computers.

3. Flicker and Stroboscopic Effects

3.1 What are the health effects of LED flicker?

Unacceptable levels of flicker can cause headaches and eyestrain for those sensitive to this sort of thing.  It is also known to be a trigger for those who suffer migraines.  If you are in an industrial setting it is important to not have bulbs that flicker as this can cause moving machinery to appear stationary which is a significant health and safety hazard.

3.2 How to ensure flicker-free lighting?

To ensure you purchase a flicker free LED light you should keep an eye out for the below:

• Choose a High-Quality Brand: Reputable manufacturers invest in sophisticated, high-frequency driver circuits that effectively eliminate perceptible flicker.
• Look for Flicker-Free Ratings: Some packaging or product specifications will explicitly state that the bulb is "flicker-free" or meets specific standards (such as IEEE P1789).
• Testing: If you suspect flicker, you can test it by filming the light with a smartphone camera. The flicker will show on the screen as horizontal dark bands or rapid on/off cycling.