Compact fluorescent lamps save energy

Environmental concerns are driving the introduction of many new products with compact fluorescent lamps, one of the more energy efficient alternatives available for lighting.

The Australian Government is moving to phase out inefficient incandescent lighting products with more cost effective and energy saving alternatives.

The Government is targeting any light bulbs that have an efficiency level of less than 15 lumens per watt. Lumens are a measure of light output and watts are a measure of energy input.

When selecting a lighting product for your home or office, look for the measure of light output, the amount of lumens the bulb produces. This will help you to purchase the light output that best suits the space.

Compact fluorescent lamps are not new to Australia and have for many years required electrical safety approval before sale. This ensures the products meet acceptable safety standards in relation to electrical safety (e.g. electric shock and fire hazards). All compact fluorescent lamps on sale in Australia must have an electrical safety approval mark on the product.

Publicity in recent months about the dangers of mercury contained in fluorescent lamps has caused public concern. However standard fluorescent tubes have always contained some mercury (around 15 mg) and are consistent with the Australian Standard. These tubes have been used safely in most commercial and public buildings in Australia and around the world for more than 40 years.

Government and industry will continue to work together to minimise the mercury content and ensure requirements for these lamps include a maximum mercury content aligned with the European Commission standard at 5 mg (one two hundredth of a gram) per lamp.

If you or your customers have any concerns about general health and safety aspects of these products, the Australian Government Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (DEWHA) has information on:

• phase out of inefficient lighting
• benefits
• alternatives
• quality
• cost
• health
• disposal.