Security Advice

Ultra bright LEDs supply a similar strongly bundled light as lasers. Thus the same safety instructions to lasers also apply to LEDs, particularly regarding distances under a meter. With a "coincidental" look into a light-emitting diode the eye is protected by the so-called eyelid conclusion reflex. The permanent movement of the eyes also avoids an overheating and thus prevents a damage of the retina.

But act with caution:
Conscious looking into the LED for any length of time will lead to permanent damage of the retina. The protecting eyelid conclusion reflex is inoperative when you stare consciously, so the eye no longer moves and an overheating of the retina emerges. This way, especially LEDs with brightness beyond 8,000 mcd can lead to a glare with lasting damage of the retina. 

Therefore please consider the following references:

Version: EN1.1 - 15.10.2008