The RG0, RG1, RG2, and RG3 classifications define blue light hazard levels for lighting products, based on the international standard IEC/TR 62778. They measure the risk of retinal damage from short-wavelength blue light. Here's a clear comparison:
Key Difference
| Class | Safety Exposure Time | Risk Level | Allowed Use Cases | Practical Examples |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RG0 | ≥ 10,000 seconds (≥ 2.78 hours) | No risk | Unlimited exposure | ✅ Required for: - Study lamps - Children's lights - Bedside lamps |
| RG1 | 100–10,000 seconds | Low risk | Avoid direct staring | ⚠️ Suitable for: - General indoor lighting - Ceiling fixtures (Must warn: "Do not stare at light") |
| RG2 | ≤ 100 seconds | Moderate risk | Brief exposure only | 🚫 Banned in: - Reading/study lamps - Close-proximity lights (e.g., some bright spotlights) |
| RG3 | ≤ 0.25 seconds | High risk | Industrial use only | 🚫 Forbidden in consumer products: - Only in specialized equipment (e.g., UV curing tools) |
Critical Details
RG0 is the gold standard for health safety:
Mandatory for lamps used near eyes (e.g., desk lamps).
Ensures no retinal damage even after hours of exposure.
Look for this label when buying study lamps or child-friendly lights.
Below is RG0 test report
RG1 is acceptable for general lighting, but:
Never install RG1 lights where direct glare is possible (e.g., desk lamps).
Often found in cheaper household bulbs.
RG2/RG3 are hazardous:
RG2 can cause damage in under 2 minutes of direct viewing.
RG3 causes instant harm (like welding arcs).
Both are illegal in consumer lamps under EU/CN/US safety laws.
Why It Matters
Science: Blue light penetrates deep into the retina, accelerating oxidative damage.
Children are more vulnerable: Their lenses transmit 60% more blue light than adults'.
When buying lamps:
Always choose RG0 for study/work lamps.
Check packaging for IEC/TR 62778 or IEC 62471 certification.
Prioritize Ra > 90 (color accuracy) + 4000K color temperature alongside RG0.
Real-World Example
A cheap "LED desk lamp" labeled RG1 might save money, but prolonged use risks eye strain. An RG0-certified lamp (e.g., Philips EyeComfort, BenQ WiT) ensures safety during late-night work. Always verify certifications! you can see more information RG0 LED lamp on http://www.benweilight.com
