LED Driving Lights & Blue Light: What You Need to Consider for Your Eyes
Did you know the intense 'blue light' from many LED driving lights could be a concern for your eyes? Experts are increasingly discussing how this strong blue light (often called HEV) might be linked to serious eye conditions like Acute Macular Degeneration (AMD) over time.
Leading vision scientists, like Dr. Shelby Temple, PhD, have highlighted these potential risks. It's important information for everyone, as it's like an early warning about looking after our long-term eye health when dealing with very bright lights.
The Nature of Scientific Discourse, Cognitive Bias & FYRLYT's Considered Approach:
It's important to acknowledge that whilst authoritative bodies and numerous researchers are investigating concerns such as those surrounding blue light, the specific extent, long-term implications, and precise thresholds for effects on humans from various light sources are often subjects of ongoing, rigorous academic debate and continuous research.
When navigating these findings and the opinions of various experts, it's also valuable for anyone – consumers and scientists alike – to be mindful of inherent cognitive biases. These are unconscious patterns of thinking that can subtly shape how data is interpreted, emphasised, or even how research itself is designed and presented. This doesn't necessarily imply deliberate distortion, but rather acknowledges the human element in the scientific process.
Furthermore, in actively evolving fields of study, it is common to encounter seemingly opposed conclusions or differing expert viewpoints. These apparent contradictions often arise from legitimate variations in:
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Research methodologies and parameters (e.g., different exposure times, intensities, or subject models).
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The specific aspects of the phenomenon being investigated (e.g., one study might focus on short-term sleep effects, another on long-term retinal cell changes).
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The interpretation and statistical analysis of complex data sets.
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The different weight given to various pieces of evidence within a large body of research.
New findings emerge, and interpretations can evolve: FYRLYT's current position
In the face of this ongoing scientific discussion and the array of findings that suggest potential risks, FYRLYT has made a considered choice to adopt a proactive risk mitigation strategy in the design and engineering of its lighting products. Rather than waiting for definitive, universally accepted conclusions on every aspect of blue light's impact—which can take many years—FYRLYT prioritises offering lighting solutions today that are engineered to minimise known potential hazards associated with intense blue light peaks.
This approach focuses on providing effective illumination while also being mindful of visual comfort, optimal dark adaptation, and reducing exposure to the more problematic wavelengths that are central to current health discussions.
The information discussed is very much in the public interest and could be a fore warning of what is to come in the future. ARTICLE > HERE. Audio interview (24 minutes) > HERE.
Visual neuroscientist Dr. Shelby Temple explains the real dangers of blue light (direct & indirect). Why is this critical for intense driving lights? See how marketing hype often ignores blue light science.
Follow the RELEVANT research re 'blue light'.
FYRLYT encourages people to follow the ever increasing independent research re 'blue light' in HIGH OUTPUT devices. Be aware the research re smart phones, tablets and domestic devices can potentially mislead you. Why? The LIGHT INTENSITY in these devices is typically quoted 0.6-2.1 lux and by many considered to be safe, not withstanding the effects re impacts on circadian rhythms and caveats Dr Temple states. LED driving lights at 50 metres, range between 254 and 888 times this level. This is not just about direct light of oncoming vehicles but your own forward projected light.
The AMA & ANSES 'blue light' reports.
The A.M.A., American Medical Association report was published in 2016, ANSES, first published in 2010 and recently followed up in 2019 reaffirming their original position. ANSES is the Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety reporting to the French government. AMA REPORT HERE. The ANSES REPORT (pdf) HERE.
Truck Drivers / High Usage / OHS.
For truck drivers it is obvious the importance of effective safe lighting for driving at night. The properties and performance of auxiliary driving lights when switched to high beam are vital to consider re driver safety and other road users. What are the long term consequences? What are these choices imposing on employed drivers or owners and their potential liabilities?
Driving light performance? Risk mitigation.
Let us focus on the basic considerations re driving light performance regardless of vehicle type. We assume the light that has relevant distance and volume. 1: Does the light resolve enough detail to minimise response time? 2: Does the light create glare or distraction resulting in eye discomfort? 3: Does the light cause undue fatigue? 4: Is there any immediate or potential long term residual damage caused by the light source?
Research consideration & conclusion.
FYRLYT acknowledges that there are currently no human trials proving LED driving lights cause harm. However, independent authorities have raised concerns about the potential harm of extremely bright blue-rich light sources. Preliminary research suggests that such sources could be harmful with substantial exposure. While most of the debate has focused on smart devices, it is important to note that high-performance driving lights can exceed the luminous intensity of a smart device by over 800 times. Before committing to super bright blue-rich high-intensity light sources, consider looking at research beyond smart devices, such as the information shared by Dr. Shelby Temple.