Question 1

What is happening with RoHS and fluorescent lamps used in insect traps?

Accepted Answer

Under the RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) Directive, many fluorescent lamps used for general lighting have been phased out due to mercury content. However, fluorescent UV-A lamps used in insect light traps are covered by specific exemptions recognising that suitable alternatives must be available for all use cases before a full phase-out. These lamps are expected to remain available until at least late 2028. As food sites plan ahead, many are evaluating LED retrofit solutions for insect light traps to maintain consistent pest control while ensuring compliance.

Question 2

How long does it take to retrofit an insect light trap with an LED lamp?

Accepted Answer

Retrofitting an insect light trap with an Opti-Catch LED lamp is typically quick and can usually be completed in a few minutes per unit. No specialist tools or electrical modifications are required. The process involves removing the fluorescent lamp, replacing the starter with a dummy starter, installing the LED retrofit lamp, and checking operation. Because the trap housing and wiring remain unchanged, retrofitting supports gradual adoption of LED lamps while maintaining effective pest control during routine maintenance.

Question 3

What is a dummy starter in an insect light trap?

Accepted Answer

A dummy starter is used when retrofitting LED lamps into insect light traps originally designed for fluorescent tubes. It replaces the fluorescent starter and completes the electrical circuit safely, allowing the LED retrofit lamp to function correctly without modifying the internal wiring. Using a dummy starter ensures that existing traps can be upgraded to LED efficiently while maintaining reliable pest control performance.

Question 4

What is GlassGuard® coating and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

GlassGuard® is a protective coating applied to insect light trap lamps to help contain glass fragments if the lamp is accidentally broken. This is particularly important in food and beverage environments where glass contamination presents a significant risk.

If a coated lamp breaks, the GlassGuard® layer helps hold fragments together, reducing the likelihood of glass entering production areas or finished products. This supports site glass and brittle plastic policies and is commonly expected in high-risk zones.

Using lamps with a protective coating demonstrates proactive risk management and can simplify audit discussions around foreign body control.

Read our blog on Why FEP-Coated Glass Is the Food Safe Choice.

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Question 5

Why have Opti-Catch lamps been created?

Accepted Answer

Opti-Catch lamps were developed to provide a practical LED retrofit solution for existing insect light traps, addressing regulatory changes, lamp availability, and performance consistency concerns. They are designed for compatibility with existing units, providing consistent pest control, energy efficiency, and compliance for food and hygiene environments. This helps sites transition to LED technology smoothly while maintaining effective insect control and meeting regulatory expectations.

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