German scientists claimed that several carcinogenic chemicals and toxins were released when the environmentally-friendly compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) were switched on, including phenol, naphthalene and styrene.
Andreas Kirchner, of the Federation of German Engineers, said: “Electrical smog develops around these lamps.
“I, therefore, use them only very economically. They should not be used in unventilated areas and definitely not in the proximity of the head.”
British experts insisted that more research was needed and urged consumers not to panic.
Don't use them near the head? You know, like for reading or something? Should we put those bulbs at ankle height? Or open the windows--even in winter when you use lamps more?
I do hope the carbon footprint savings of these CFL bulbs don't include the early death of the user.
And don't you love the British experts saying not to panic about the study? Isn't the whole anti-incandescent light bulb movement based on causing panic about global warming?
Grant me that this is funny.