UL Sheds Light On New Research-Based Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL) Safety Tips
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Over the years, consumers have adopted CFLs because they use about two-thirds the amount of energy of standard incandescent bulbs and can last up to 10 times longer. They also produce less heat, so they’re safer to operate and can cut home cooling costs. UL’s new compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) safety study reveals that consumers can use CFLs more broadly and safely in a variety of lighting applications. To help consumers safely light up their homes with CFLs, UL offers the following safety guidelines.
- Light for Less. Spend a little bit more to purchase CFLs, and realize significant cost-saving benefits through their energy efficiency and longevity. CFLs use about two-thirds the energy of standard incandescent bulbs and can last up to 10 times longer, which means you replace them less frequently than incandescents and you’ll spend far less to light your house.
- Spread the CFL Love. CFLs are recommended for open fixtures that allow airflow, such as table and floor lamps, wall sconces, pendants, and outdoor fixtures, and UL’s research shows they are safe to use throughout your home, too. Look for uses in the family and living rooms, kitchen, dining room, bedrooms and outdoor living spaces.
- Don’t be Dim, Check the Package. Some CFLs can be used in light fixtures that are connected to dimmers or three-way socket fixtures, but check the package for ones that specify use for those applications. If you use a regular CFL in a dimmer or three-way socket, it may flash, flicker or put out poor light, but it will not pose any safety hazards.
- Handle with Care. Though UL’s study shows CFLs are safe to use in a variety of light fixtures, they are made of glass tubing and can break if dropped or roughly handled. Be careful when removing the lamp from its packaging, installing it, or replacing it. Always screw and unscrew the lamp by its base, and never forcefully twist the CFL into a light socket by its tubes.
- Be Wise about Waste. The net benefits of using energy-saving CFLs outweigh the risks of the very small amount of mercury present in them. However, if a bulb breaks, take the extra precautions while cleaning up:
- Open a window and leave the room for 15 minutes or more
- Sweep up—don’t vacuum—all of the glass fragments and fine particles
- Or, use a wet rag to clean it up, and put all of the pieces and the rag into a plastic bag
- Don’t throw away in your everyday trash if a better option exists
- Wash your hands afterward
- Recommit to Recycling. Recycle CFLs instead of throwing them in your everyday trash. To identify local recycling services, contact your local municipal solid waste agency. Also, many retailers that sell CFLs will accept them for recycling as well. For more information on how to handle a broken CFL visit UL’s Web site.
- Select Safety. Select CFLs that have been thoroughly tested to rigorous safety standards by UL. You can look for the UL Mark and be confident that the CFLs you are using have been tested for safety. Please visit UL.
