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Fluorescent Light Gas Effects

Fluorescent lights rely on the use of argon gas to help produce light. For some people, sensitivity to small particles or the flicker caused by the fluorescent lighting can cause a variety of health effects including headaches, nausea and seizures. In concentrated doses, argon can over-saturate the air rapidly, creating a life-threatening situation.

  1. Headaches

    • The flicker produced by some fluorescent lights can cause headaches for those sensitive to the light. Even if you do not perceive the light flickering, the sensory system may still process the disturbance and cause headaches or migraines.

    Dizziness

    • Inhalation of argon gas can cause dizziness. When the liquid form of the gas is no longer contained, the quick evaporation into the air can cause a supersaturated atmosphere. In a small dose, this can cause dizziness, nausea and vomiting.

    Seizures

    • Ionized particles can escape the fluorescent tube, causing a person to become sick. The sensory system and the brain are highly sensitive to these particles and in certain cases will affect portions of the brain. When this happens, a type of seizure known as a photosensitive seizure can happen.

    Death

    • Argon is classified as a "simple asphyxiant." When a person is exposed to supersaturated amounts of argon in the air and oxygen is reduced, suffocation is possible within seconds. Death can also occur when a person makes an error in judgment from lack of oxygen.

    Symptoms

    • Initial symptoms associated with argon inhalation are intense need for air and rapid respiration. Loss of muscle coordination and mental agility are diminished next. The next symptoms are emotional instability, reduced sensations and extreme fatigue. After the asphyxiation progresses, there can be nausea and vomiting and loss of consciousness. Convulsions and severe coma will give way to death.

    Environment

    • Argon gas poses no threat to the environment and no ecological adversities have been recorded. The effect of this gas on plants and animals is unknown in 2010, but argon does not pose a threat to aquatic life, according to Lenntech.

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