Televisions and Video Display Monitors

Description

X-rays may be produced when electrons, accelerated by high voltage, strike an obstacle while traveling in a vacuum, as in a TV tube. Since many of the components in television sets operate at thousands of volts, there is the potential for x-ray generation. These components may produce x-rays capable of escaping from the receiver cabinet or picture tube. It is this kind of radiation that can make TV sets a potential hazard. It should be emphasized, however, that most TV sets have been found not to give off any measurable level of radiation, and there is no evidence that radiation from TV sets has resulted in human injury.

Procedures

Risks/Benefits

• We Want You to Know About Television Radiation November 1999

Laws, Regulations & Standards

• Performance Standard for Television Receivers (21 CFR 1020.10)
• Electronic Product Radiation Control Laws and Regulations

Advice to Professionals

Industry Guidance

• Reporting and Compliance Guide for Television Products PDF October 1995
• Changes to TV Annual Report Guide Regarding Radiation Safety May 1997
• Exclusion from Radiation Standard for Camcorder Viewfinders May 1997
• Laboratory Testing Procedures PDF May 1996
• Sampling of Products for Laboratory Testing PDF

Other Resources