Black Light Safety: Risks and Precautions

[DaveC426913]

In another post, someone was asking about black lights..

Are they really emitting UV? Is it enough to be dangerous? In theory I mean. Obviously (scratch that, I mean: 'one would assume') they wouldn't market them if they were actually dangerous when used properly.

My son lights his room with them. Is he exposing himself to an excess of UV?

Also, do they put out more heat than normal bulbs? They seem to get very VERY hot. It occurs to me that using more than one in a fixture might be dangerous.

 

[GENIERE]

…Are they really emitting UV? Is it enough to be dangerous? In theory I mean. Obviously (scratch that, I mean: 'one would assume') they wouldn't market them if they were actually dangerous when used properly.

They do emit UV. There is a low level of risk, probably less than sunlight at the beach that can cause skin cancer after years of exposure. Depends on how many and how bright the UV sources are. You’re not able to determine the brightness of the source by looking at it, as your eye does not respond to UV light. What distinguishes UV from visible light is that UV light is ionizing radiation and can cause DNA damage. I suggest the UV light source(s) be placed where they cannot be viewed directly, but only the objects being illuminated are visible. The light emanating (fluorescing) from the object is of lower energy than UV and not hazardous. Babies are sometimes exposed to UV radiation to help lower biliruben concentrations in their blood. Moderation is the guideline.

…Also, do they put out more heat than normal bulbs? They seem to get very VERY hot. It occurs to me that using more than one in a fixture might be dangerous.

UV radiation is more energetic than visible radiation and requires more energy to create it. Most means of generating visible light are inefficient, even the common incandescent lamp gets very hot because most of the emitted light is in the infrared, and only sensed as heat, not seen. The fixture should be labeled with it’s wattage rating and intended use.

For your info, UV radiation comes in three flavors and among many uses: UVA is used in sun tanning parlors. UVB is used to treat certain skin conditions such as Psoriasis. UVC (highly dangerous) is used for sterilization. Your son’s UV sources likely emit mostly in the UVA range.

…

 

[Graeme Robinson]

Black lights, also known as ultraviolet (UV) lights, can pose potential risks if not used properly. While they are marketed as safe for use, it is important to understand the potential risks and take precautions to ensure safe usage.

Firstly, it is important to note that black lights do emit UV rays, which can be harmful to the skin and eyes if exposed to excessive amounts. However, the amount of UV emitted by black lights is typically much lower than that of natural sunlight, so the risk is relatively low. In theory, if a person were to be exposed to a large amount of UV from a black light for an extended period of time, it could potentially be dangerous. However, when used properly, the risk is minimal.

It is also important to consider the quality and type of black light being used. Cheaper black lights may emit higher levels of UV, so it is recommended to invest in a higher quality one from a reputable brand. Additionally, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for usage and not to use the black light for extended periods of time.

In terms of heat, black lights do tend to produce more heat than traditional bulbs. This is due to the type of light emitted and the materials used in the bulb. It is important to use caution when handling a black light, especially when using multiple in one fixture. If the bulbs are getting too hot, it is recommended to turn them off and allow them to cool down before handling them.

In regards to your son using black lights in his room, as long as he is not directly exposed to the light for extended periods of time, the risk is minimal. However, it is always a good idea to monitor his usage and ensure he is following safety precautions.

In conclusion, while black lights do emit UV rays and can pose potential risks, these risks are minimal when used properly. It is important to invest in a high quality black light and follow safety precautions to ensure safe usage. If you have any concerns, it is always best to consult with a professional or the manufacturer for further guidance.