Safety Tips - Halogen Lights
Halogen bulbs provide an intense, white light in a very small "envelope" or casing. They're used in a range of lighting products, from flashlights to aircraft running lights. In the home, they appear in some torchiere-style floor lamps, reading lights, grow lights, slide projectors, outdoor lights, and similar products.
Because halogen bulbs burn very hot, they can present a serious fire hazard if not used properly.
General Tips
- Look for the CSA International certification mark. This shows that the unit complies with recognized safety standards.
- Keep halogen lamps at least a half-metre (20 inches) from walls and bookcases, and farther from more combustible materials such as drapes, furniture, bedding, and clothing.
- Keep halogen lamps away from high-traffic areas where people or pets might bump into them or trip on the cord.
- Never use a halogen lamp in a child's bedroom or playroom. The risk is too great that a child could tip it over and ignite objects such as stuffed toys or clothing.
- Never drape anything (such as a scarf, towel or clothing) over a torchiere halogen lamp, even if it is turned off. The fabric could easily ignite.
- Never hang balloons, crepe paper or other decorations near a halogen lamp.
- Keep halogen floor lamps away from bunk beds.
- Turn the lamp off when you leave the room for an extended period.
- If the lamp has a dimmer switch, keep the light at a lower setting to reduce heat buildup, and to extend the life of the bulb.
Replacing a halogen bulb
- Before touching or changing a bulb, unplug the lamp and wait for it to cool down.
- Wear gloves or cover your fingers with plastic wrap. Never touch a halogen bulb with bare hands. Even a small amount of oil from your hands could cause the bulb to explode when it heats up. If you do touch the bulb directly, clean it with a soft cloth and rubbing alcohol, and let it dry thoroughly before turning it on.
- When replacing a bulb, never exceed the recommended wattage for the fixture.