Question:
Is it possible that the RF energy emitted by these bulbs over a period of time could cause leukemia or other problems?
Response:
> Is it possible that the RF energy emitted by these bulbs over a >period of time could cause leukemia or other problems?
Yes, and so does the ink on US currency. To avoid cancer, send me all of yours. dale bass — Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering University of Virginia Charlottesville, Virginia (804) 924-7926
Response:
> Is it possible that the RF energy emitted by these bulbs over a > period of time could cause leukemia or other problems?
Better not sit under those florescent blubs at work or school!
Response:
>Is it possible that the RF energy emitted by these bulbs over a >period of time could cause leukemia or other problems?
I suppose it is possible. And maybe it will cause you to live longer than average too, just like those radio amateurs did in that study which showed increased incidence of leukemia. But more to the point, the light bulbs will have to meet the same RF emissions limits as television receivers, personal computers, CD players, microwave ovens, and all that other electronic equipment you have (better turn it all off right now 
). Donald Borowski WA6OMI Hewlett-Packard, Spokane Division "Angels are able to fly because they take themselves so lightly." -G.K. Chesterton
Response:
>But more to the point, the light bulbs will have to meet the same RF >emissions limits as television receivers, personal computers, CD players, >microwave ovens, and all that other electronic equipment you have (better
Only if they fall into that class of equipment. I suspect CF bulb makers will try to get classified into the same type of equipment as appliances. Many kitchen appliances emit huge amounts of broadband interfering rf. This usually is due to the inductive arcing from motors. Rolf Meier Mitel Corporation
Response:
> Is it possible that the RF energy emitted by these bulbs over a > period of time could cause leukemia or other problems?
I think it would be more constructive to ask "How much RF do these lights generate?" This way we might discuss safety on a scientific basis. What does a "period of time" mean? I wonder – is this open ended so we are guaranteed of some awful side effect, even if it takes 100 years locked in a closet full of these devices merrily irradiating away? "Leukemia or other problems" suggest the formation of a witch hunt for health problems. If the smear campaign starts, lets not forget Color TV, micro-wave ovens, or our dear, old, flourescent light fixtures! As for me, candles and gas lamps are safest!
Response:
>"Leukemia or other problems" suggest the formation of a witch hunt for >health problems. If the smear campaign starts, lets not forget Color TV, >micro-wave ovens, or our dear, old, flourescent light fixtures! >As for me, candles and gas lamps are safest!
Not unless you collect and dispose of the combustion products safely, or wear an environment suit while using them. Carbon monoxide, soot, weirdo hydrocarbons etc. from a candle are just as bad as those from a cigarette.
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