The use of LED in greenhouse horticulture has taken off, partly due to the Energy Efficiency Greenhouse Horticulture (EC) regulation. This leads to questions about possible human health risks when working under LED light, reports Glastuinbouw Nederland. In response, Stigas and Glastuinbouw Nederland have put together a leaflet with measures growers can take and choices they can make that will make working under LEDs risk-free.
The so-called photobiological risks from exposure to a light source are linked to the radiation of energy in different wavelengths (ultraviolet, visible and infrared) of the spectrum. In addition, they depend on the duration of exposure to the radiation, the intensity and the distance from the light source. The potential risk exists for any type of light source and is independent of whether it is natural light (sun) or artificial light (HPS/SON-T or LED).
No risk
In general, LEDs used for assimilation lighting contain little to no light from the ultraviolet or infrared spectrum and are therefore not hazardous to the skin. The risk of greenhouse application is in the blue light (400-500 nm) as part of the so-called PAR (or growth) light.
This wavelength range combined with prolonged viewing can cause irreversible damage to the eye (the retina). This risk is called Blue Light Hazard. These risks can be well managed. There is no risk if the measures in the leaflet are taken and followed.
The leaflet was produced in cooperation with the Dutch Foundation for Lighting Science (NSVV), Wageningen University & Research (WUR), Rofianda and Signify and is co-endorsed by the suppliers listed in the leaflet.
The leaflet (in Dutch) can be viewed via this link.
Source: Glastuinbouw Nederland