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Compact Fluorescent Lamps
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Toronto, ON – The Electrical Safety Authority
(ESA) is receiving increasing reports from
concerned
consumers regarding the end-of-life failure
of Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs). The
end-of-life failure
for CFLs may vary depending on the
manufacturer of the CFL, and on the type and
location of the lighting
fixture being used. When CFLs fail they may
emit smoke, an odour, or a popping sound;
and the plastic
base may become discoloured, charred or
deformed. Certification agencies have
advised that this failure
does not present a shock or fire hazard for
approved products.
ESA is concerned that it can be difficult
for consumers to distinguish between what is
normal and what
may be a precursor to fire or some other
hazardous condition. As a safety precaution,
ESA encourages
consumers to replace CFLs at the first sign
of failure or aging. The early warning signs
to look for include:
flickering, a bright orange or red glow,
popping sounds, an odour, or browning of the
ballast enclosure
(base).
ESA is also advising consumers that
different CFLs are required for different
applications and use. CFLs
may lack information on the packaging, or
provide conflicting information about safe
product use.
Consumers are encouraged to read the base of
the lamp and to contact manufacturers for
additional
information if required. Unless otherwise
specified, CFLs should not be used: in
totally enclosed
recessed fixtures; with dimmer switches; in
touch lamps with photocells or with
electronic timers; where
exposed to weather; or where exposed to
water.
ESA is encouraging product manufacturers to
review packaging information to support
consumers in
making safe product decisions. Activities
are underway to update the existing Canadian
safety standard
for CFLs to address consumers’ end-of-life
product issues.
Contact: Electrical Safety Authority: Ted
Olechna, Provincial Code Engineer, (905)
712-5366.
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