RISK FACTOR
The Risk Factor (RF) determines the level of risk associated with the use of LED light sources.
It primarily covers photobiological safety, as well as thermal and electrical aspects that directly
impact user comfort and safety.
LED light sources are designed and classified according to the IEC 62471-5:2015 standard, which
defines risk groups based on optical radiation emission, particularly blue light (Blue Light Hazard).
The scope of the RF assessment includes:
· Photobiological RF – eye and skin safety
· Thermal RF – LED temperature control and durability
· Electrical RF – power supply stability and user protection
An appropriate RF level ensures safe use of LEDs in commercial, industrial, and professional
applications.
Photobiological Risk Factor
The most important area of RF for LEDs is the impact of optical radiation on the human body,
particularly on eyesight and skin. This assessment is performed in accordance with the IEC
62471-5:2015 standard – Photobiological Safety of Lamps and Lamp Systems. Under this
standard, LED lights are classified into risk groups:
RF
· RG0 (Risk Group 0) – no risk
· RG1 (Low Risk) – low risk
· RG2 (Moderate Risk) – moderate risk (e.g., intense LEDs)
· RG3 (High Risk) – high risk (rarely encountered in general lighting)
In case when RG class is RG2 or higher, manufacturer is obligated to include this information
in technical datasheet.
The key factor here is Blue Light Hazard – the risk of retinal damage from radiation in the blue
range (≈ 400–500 nm), especially with:
· high LED luminance,
· long exposure time,
· short viewing distance.
It is worth noting, the most hazardous source of blue light a human might encounter is the Sun
that would come in Risk Group 2 or 3 (can cause injury even during very short or momentary
exposure), if considered a lamp.
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