A lot of people, due to the effort to save on energy and cut their energy bills, switch from using regular light bulbs to energy-efficient ones or CFLs that are considered to be the environmentally-friendly variant. Without doubt, replacing the most frequently used 5 light bulbs with ENERGY STAR models helps you save up to $75 on a yearly basis. However, it appears that you are worsening your health…
Namely, these bulbs are highly toxic so the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued an emergency protocol that one needs to follow in cause an energy efficient bulb breaks because it will release poisonous gas.
Believe it or not, when broken indoors, these bulbs will release 20 times higher amount than the acceptable amount of mercury into the air and this was shown by a study done for German’s Federal Environment Agency. The symptoms that one may experience in case this happens are migraines, tiredness, seizures, cluster headaches, poor concentration, anxiety, and dizziness.
Why Switch Back to Regular Light Bulbs
They are full of mercury
Did you know that mercury is a powerful neurotoxin which is harmful to pregnant women and children? It has a toxic effect on the brain, liver, kidneys, and nervous system and it can deteriorate the health of the reproductive, immune, and cardiovascular system as well. What’s more, it has been associated with insomnia, loss of memory, anxiety, and Alzheimer’s.
Emit a high amount of UV rays
These light bulbs are known to emit UV-B and traces of UV-C radiation and the latter is bad for the skin and the eyes. These rays will worsen the immunity and avert he adequate creation of vitamin D3.
They contain dangerous carcinogens
According to a study conducted by Peter Braun, these bulbs contain dangerous carcinogens like phenol, styrene, and naphthalene that contribute to the creation of cancer.
Intensity problems with Irien Syndrome
This condition is manifested through a perception issue preventing a person’s ability to read and the symptoms may intensify by energy-efficient light bulbs. Hence, regular lamps are considered to be the best source of artificial light for people with this syndrome.
The Emergency Protocol in Case of a Broken CFL Bulb
1st step
Do not panic.
2nd step
Open up the windows and close the doors and get children and pets out; turn off the central air to prevent the mercury circulating through your home
3rd step
Find an adequate sealable container to collect the broken bulb like a glass jar with a metal lid or some plastic container
4th step
Now it is time to collect the broken pieces (never use a broom or a vacuum cleaner) with a piece of paper or cardboard that you can dispose together with the bulb pieces. Also, use a duct tape piece to lift off the smaller bits and any white powder you see
5th step
Use a damp paper towel to gently remove any white powder left on the floor. All of the elements you have used for cleaning should be put together in the sealable container; then, close it and throw it in the garbage
6th step
Wash your hands thoroughly and then leave the windows open for several more hours.