Led safety in toys

Abstract

The development in light emitting diode (LED) energy efficiency, longer life time and cost reduction resulted in fast penetration of LEDs into a wide range of consumer products, including toys. The significant increase of optical output and expansion of the emission wavelength range, from ultraviolet to infrared, raised a concern about optical radiation safety of LED use in toys.A methodology for the assessment of optical radiation safety of LEDs in toys is suggested. The simplified approach is based on the LED photometric characteristics from datasheets and avoids the need for additional complex measurements. More than 280 LEDs intended for incorporation into toys, in batches of 5-10, and a range of toys containing LEDs were measured to assess optical radiation safety. The majority of the tested LEDs could be considered as eye-safe for use in toys. Measurements showed good agreement with the predictions of the simplified safety screening.The development in light emitting diode (LED) energy efficiency, longer life time and cost reduction resulted in fast penetration of LEDs into a wide range of consumer products, including toys. The significant increase of optical output and expansion of the emission wavelength range, from ultraviolet to infrared, raised a concern about optical radiation safety of LED use in toys.A methodology for the assessment of optical radiation safety of LEDs in toys is suggested. The simplified approach is based on the LED photometric characteristics from datasheets and avoids the need for additional complex measurements. More than 280 LEDs intended for incorporation into toys, in batches of 5-10, and a range of toys containing LEDs were measured to assess optical radiation safety. The majority of the tested LEDs could be considered as eye-safe for use in toys. Measurements showed good agreement with the predictions of the simplified safety screening.