VSL Achieves Accreditation for LED Light Flicker Measurements under European Ecodesign Directives
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VSL Achieves Accreditation for LED Light Flicker Measurements under European Ecodesign Directives
The National Metrology Institute is now among the first institutes worldwide capable of calibrating and validating light sources against European ecodesign requirements for flicker.
VSL has obtained accreditation for ISO/IEC 17025 measurements of Temporal Light Modulation (TLM) – commonly known as light flicker and stroboscopic effects. This enables manufacturers, suppliers, test labs, and market surveillance authorities to objectively and consistently demonstrate that LED products comply with relevant standards and regulations, particularly the European ecodesign directive for sustainable products.
Flicker in light sources affects how we perceive motion – think of a strobe light in a club or a faulty fluorescent tube in an office. In practice, flicker can cause issues such as headaches, eye strain, migraines, and even epileptic seizures. While this is unpleasant in office environments, it can become life-threatening in settings involving heavy machinery.
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Paul Dekker
Senior Metrologist Length - Optics
VSL’s new facilities and accreditation stem from the European MetTLM project. These services are now offered under accreditation to support new European regulations. VSL developed a laser and LED facility for temporal calibration, validated the required calculation models, designed a reference meter traceable to time/frequency and voltage, and played a key role in international comparisons to improve consistency between laboratories.
These efforts now deliver valuable services for all organizations active in the lighting supply chain:
- Accredited testing of light sources and components for TLM, including reporting and comprehensive uncertainty analysis.
- Calibration of photometers and TLM meters against VSL references, enabling laboratories and manufacturers to work on a uniform measurement basis.
- Independent validation and troubleshooting for design choices, such as dimming strategies and driver settings, to minimize TLM without unnecessary costs.
- Support for market surveillance and procurement, using objective measurements for audits and enforcement based on clear criteria.
For businesses, this means reduced compliance risks, faster time-to-market, and fewer disputes over measurement differences. Ultimately, it delivers calmer, more comfortable, and safer lighting – in schools, workplaces, and on the road.
“With this accreditation, we make TLM measurements for ecodesign assessments reliable and comparable across national and international parties,” says Paul Dekker, Senior Metrologist at VSL. “That is the essence of trust in the chain from design to use. This milestone helps companies shorten development and certification processes, reduce costs, and make lighting safer and more pleasant for everyone.”
Learn more about VSL’s services here: https://www.vsl.nl/en/areas-of-expertise/light/