Myths about fluorescent lamps confirmed or denied

Fluorescent lamps flicker and cause migraines. Dispel the myths about fluorescent lamps here.

Myth: Fluorescent lamps flicker
Fact: Previously, fluorescent lamps tended to flicker somewhat, especially if the tube was worn out, but that’s no longer a problem with most of the newer lighting systems today.

Fact about fluorescent lamps
The so-called HF (high frequency) electronic ballast which is found in many modern fittings completely eliminates flicker. It is therefore important to ensure that all new fittings have a HF ballast. Back to top

Myth: Fluorescent lamps reproduce colour poorly
Fact: The ability of fluorescent lamps to reproduce colour varies from type to type. Standard triphosphor coated fluorescent lamps reproduce colour at a similar level to A-rated bulbs, i.e. at 80-85 CRI (colour rendering index).

Fact: If you need a particularly good light you can use quintuple phosphor coated lamps (CRI= 90-95) and consider supplementing them with tungsten filament bulbs.

Fact about ability to reproduce colour
The ability to reproduce colour affects our experience of colour. This ability is based on a scale of 0 to 100 (CRI), where the capacity of daylight to reproduce colour is rated at 100. A CRI value over 80 is sufficient in all places where special, colour demanding visual tasks are not undertaken. Back to top

Myth: Fluorescent lamps cause migraine and epilepsy
Fact: Flickering fittings are capable of triggering migraine or epilepsy but the majority of newer fluorescent tube fittings do not flicker thanks to high frequency (HF) electronic ballasts. Consequently, they should not contribute to these types of afflictions.

Some older fluorescent tube lighting systems have the old 50 Hz ballasts in the fittings, which can cause noticeable flickering. These can therefore cause problems for persons suffering from migraine or epilepsy. Back to top

Myth: Fluorescent lamps cause stress, concentration difficulties, and depression
Fact: There are no unequivocal research results documenting that fluorescent lamps cause stress, concentration difficulties or other malaises. However, it is always important to ensure adequate, good quality lighting in all places where people work.

Avoid flickering and pulsating lights. You can do this by installing electronic high frequency (HF) ballasts in the fixtures. Back to top

Page last updated 14.03.2009