As a relatively new technology compared to the 130+ year old lighting industry, some people reasonably have questions about LED lights (or solid state lighting, as it is sometimes called), and even question if there are health concerns with this technology.
As always, there are appropriate prudent, ongoing studies to ensure that LED lights are safe. However, the good news is that evidence to date is indicating that LED lights are not only safe, but also that, because of characteristics that are unique to LED lighting, that they are closer to natural sunlight. An early 2011 study that suggests a possibility of health concerns is associated with low intensity red Christmas tree lights that were crushed to dust, exposing lead in solder that was used to construct the light, not dedicated interior or exterior lights. A review of the paper, including comments with the study's abstract can be found here: http://ledsmagazine.com/news/8/2/13.
Below are just a few of the characteristics of LED lights that make them a healthy alternative both for humans and for our environment:
1. LEDs do not emit infrared or ultraviolet emissions
2. Fewer or no toxic materials
3. Low power consumption
4. Tunable light color
5. Vibration resistant
6. Dimming capability
7. Instant on / rapid cycle immunity
8. Ultra-long source life and low maintenance
9. Directional light emission
1. LEDs do not emit infrared or ultraviolet emissions
These radiation types can cause damage to sensitive artwork and other materials, as well as causing eye and skin burns with prolonged exposure.
2. Fewer or no toxic materials
Many lighting sources such as Fluorescent tubes include Mercury and other harmful substances. LEDs contain no Mercury.
3. Low power consumption
Reduces the carbon emissions required to generate electrical energy and produce the light.
4. Tunable light color
By tuning the color of light emitted to match lighting needs, LEDs can reduce eye strain due to improper lighting or color shifting.
5. Vibration resistant
Because of no need for filaments or glass enclosures, LEDs are much more resistant to breakage and reduce any risk of being injured by shattered glass.
6. Dimming capability
When properly installed and combined with a compatible dimmer, LEDs enable dimming to lower lighting conditions, which can be more similar to natural light patterns
7. Instant on / rapid cycle immunity
When lighting is needed for emergency situations, the instant on (to full brightness) characteristics is safer because critical light is immediately available. Further, lifetime not shortened by rapid on/off.
8. Ultra-long source life and low maintenance
Because LED lights last significantly longer than traditional lighting, much less maintenance is required, reducing the risk of any injuries related to that maintenance.
9. Directional light emission
Light can be focused where desired, potentially eliminating light bleeding to areas where it is not desirable. (Dark Sky compatible)
As this industry matures and is better understood, it is very likely that we will find that it gets even healthier for us because the technology allows us to more precisely control the color and other characteristics of the light that is emitted, unlike its predecessors.
If you have questions or comments, please comment on this post or let us know by reaching out to us at Leading Edge Designs, so we can help you solve your lighting needs.
As always, there are appropriate prudent, ongoing studies to ensure that LED lights are safe. However, the good news is that evidence to date is indicating that LED lights are not only safe, but also that, because of characteristics that are unique to LED lighting, that they are closer to natural sunlight. An early 2011 study that suggests a possibility of health concerns is associated with low intensity red Christmas tree lights that were crushed to dust, exposing lead in solder that was used to construct the light, not dedicated interior or exterior lights. A review of the paper, including comments with the study's abstract can be found here: http://ledsmagazine.com/news/8/2/13.
Below are just a few of the characteristics of LED lights that make them a healthy alternative both for humans and for our environment:
1. LEDs do not emit infrared or ultraviolet emissions
2. Fewer or no toxic materials
3. Low power consumption
4. Tunable light color
5. Vibration resistant
6. Dimming capability
7. Instant on / rapid cycle immunity
8. Ultra-long source life and low maintenance
9. Directional light emission
1. LEDs do not emit infrared or ultraviolet emissions
These radiation types can cause damage to sensitive artwork and other materials, as well as causing eye and skin burns with prolonged exposure.
2. Fewer or no toxic materials
Many lighting sources such as Fluorescent tubes include Mercury and other harmful substances. LEDs contain no Mercury.
3. Low power consumption
Reduces the carbon emissions required to generate electrical energy and produce the light.
4. Tunable light color
By tuning the color of light emitted to match lighting needs, LEDs can reduce eye strain due to improper lighting or color shifting.
5. Vibration resistant
Because of no need for filaments or glass enclosures, LEDs are much more resistant to breakage and reduce any risk of being injured by shattered glass.
6. Dimming capability
When properly installed and combined with a compatible dimmer, LEDs enable dimming to lower lighting conditions, which can be more similar to natural light patterns
7. Instant on / rapid cycle immunity
When lighting is needed for emergency situations, the instant on (to full brightness) characteristics is safer because critical light is immediately available. Further, lifetime not shortened by rapid on/off.
8. Ultra-long source life and low maintenance
Because LED lights last significantly longer than traditional lighting, much less maintenance is required, reducing the risk of any injuries related to that maintenance.
9. Directional light emission
Light can be focused where desired, potentially eliminating light bleeding to areas where it is not desirable. (Dark Sky compatible)
As this industry matures and is better understood, it is very likely that we will find that it gets even healthier for us because the technology allows us to more precisely control the color and other characteristics of the light that is emitted, unlike its predecessors.
If you have questions or comments, please comment on this post or let us know by reaching out to us at Leading Edge Designs, so we can help you solve your lighting needs.
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