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5. 8. 2022

How to stop feeling tired and increase work productivity? Sufficient natural light and the choice of suitable office lighting can help

Lighting in the workplace affects our physical and psychological state. Properly selected lights can increase productivity and prevent unpleasant burning eyes or headaches. Decisive parameters for lighting selection include not only light color and intensity, but also the type of lighting. The right choice for central and table lighting is essential.

 

The role of natural light in human life is undeniable. It has a significant effect not only on physical and mental health, but also on work performance. However, not every interior can be designed with sufficient natural light and sunshine. According to the IPSOS research agency, up to 70 % of employees have to use artificial lighting even during the day. But which lights are the right ones?

 

Did you know that

...according to a Harvard Business Review survey, due to the absence of daylight, almost 50% of workers report feeling tired and sad more often.

...because of a lack of natural light, people are more easily stressed and irritable, plus they have trouble concentrating.

...on a sunny summer day, light intensity reaches up to 100,000 lux; in the shade 10,000 lux is measured; and in a well-lit office only 500 lux. According to a new workspace regulatory standard valid as of 1 May 2022, depending on the conditions, a well-lit office should have 750 lux and with recommended dimming. The optics of each luminaire play a fundamental role in office lighting, which must meet the low glare index UGR<19 requirement according to the current standard.

 

Higher shades of white are ideal for offices

 

The color of light, or chromaticity temperature, is divided into warm, neutral and cold. While the warm tones are suitable for apartments and residential living, the neutral ones are suitable for workspaces such as offices, sports centers, etc. This light is suitable for spaces with a lack of daylight and is an ideal choice for offices. It supports concentration and productivity and it reduces feelings of fatigue as it simulates light in broad daylight. The amount of light, or its intensity, always depends on the type or nature of the activity carried out in the given office and is determined by hygiene standards.

 

LED lamps for central lighting

 

In addition to the color of the light and the intensity of the lighting, the type of light and lighting location are also important. The basics of high-quality office lighting include, first and foremost, the appropriate placement of lights that illuminate the entire workplace. Appropriate lighting selection can prevent burning eyes, squinting, headaches or fatigue. LED lamps with optics are suitable for this type of lighting and meet the already mentioned low glare index UGR<19 standard. Depending on the design of the interior itself, you can choose both hanging, recessed or built-in lamps.

 

The table lamp must not give off a glare

 

Setting and arranging desk lighting is an individual matter for each worker. The right office lamp should not have a direct glare or shine into the working person’s eyes. It should therefore have suitable optics. All this can be set and changed thanks to the lamp’s positioning. The intensity of the light then needs to be changed according to the activity, which is why it is ideal to choose a lamp that can be dimmed whenever necessary.

 

Do you need advice on your office lighting? Our Design & Build team is at your full disposal.

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