Are LED Lights ‘Comparable to Asbestos’?

The past two decades have seen huge change in the way we light buildings with a move to replace traditional incandescent and halogen light bulbs with LED alternatives in a bid for increased energy efficiency. Now, new research is suggesting that, despite the cost and energy saving benefits, LED lighting may have an adverse impact on our health, causing researchers from University College London to refer to it as a “public health emergency, comparable to asbestos” . [1].

The issue is said to be the short wavelength blue light which is omitted from LED lighting. Numerous studies have shown that blue light can:

•  Damage the eye, particularly to the lens in children and the retina in older people;

• Suppress melatonin production, leading to sleep disturbance and shifts in circadian rhythm;

• Impact blood sugar levels leaving diabetics in hyperglycaemia

• Adversely affect some mental health conditions.

LED lighting contains little, to no, long wave infrared light which counteracts the negative effects of blue light, unlike more traditional lighting sources.

In the recent study conducted by researchers from UCL [2] , two test groups of UCL workers were analysed for mitochondrial function; both groups being exposed to LED light and an absence of natural light in their workplace. One group was additionally exposed to infrared light via tungsten desk lamps for 2 weeks. Results from colour contrast sensitivity testing showed that mitochondrial function declined in those exposed only to the shorter wave LED lighting whereas those exposed to longer wave lighting saw significant improvements which lasted for up to two months after the additional light source was removed.

Countless workplaces, schools, hospitals and other buildings are now lit entirely with LED lighting and in many there are limited alternate or natural light sources present to provide the necessary balance of broader spectrum light. In many cases, people spending significant time in these environments will also be looking at LED backlit screens on computers, phones and tablet devices increasing their exposure to blue light.

The UCL researchers have concluded that “changing the lighting in these environments could be a highly economic route to improved public health”  [3].

Whilst we are some way from any suggestion that there is potential for these LED-lit spaces being shown to be the cause of health problems of users, insurers may need to consider whether the scientific evidence is such that LED lighting may need to be considered an emerging risk.

References

[1] LED lights could be ‘the new asbestos’, UCL scientists warn – John E. Kaye, The European, 21 September 2026.

[2] LED lighting (350–650nm) undermines human visual performance unless supplemented by wider spectra (400–1500nm+) like daylight – Edward M. Barrett and Glen Jeffery, Scientific Reports, 23 January 2026.

[3] LED lighting (350-650nm) undermines human visual performance unless supplemented by wider spectra (400-1500nm+) like daylight, Edward M Barrett and Glen Jeffery, 235/01/2026