Good Office lighting improves health

The link between light and human health is embedded in our molecular make-up. Lighting levels determine our body clock, affecting the biochemical, physiological and behavioural processes that keep us alive and healthy. Light also affects our circadian rhythm, helping us distinguish between night and day and different seasons. And while light has an effect on our sleeping patterns, it also affects the functioning of our immune system and psychological well-being.

The power and impact that light has on one’s wellness should not be under-estimated. Light therapy has been used to treat various illnesses by relieving symptoms of diseases and conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Chronic Fatigue. It has also shown positive results in treating depression, sleep disorders and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – a well-documented condition caused by a lack of sunshine.

Our modern lifestyle dictates that we spend much of our time indoors under artificial light – either at work or home. Despite the essential role that light plays in our lives, office design and contemporary residential architecture often fails to optimise the use of this important element. There are, however, various steps you can take to optimise your wellbeing within the context of time spent in artificially lit environments.

Valerie Poyurs, GM of Marketing at Radiant – one of South Africa’s largest lighting and electrical manufacturers and distributors – has the following advice…

Turn it up
There should always be enough light to enable you to go about your tasks without having to strain your eyes. Poor lighting can lead to asthenopia, an ophthalmological condition which causes symptoms such as fatigue, red eyes, blurred vision, headaches and occasional double vision.

The level of lighting should always suit the nature of your task. For example, if your job involves detailed, visually taxing work such as inspection or technical drawing, make sure you use a bright light that helps you see clearly. In addition to fluorescent overhead office lights, use a task-specific lamp to illuminate your workspace. At home, it’s a good idea to invest in a dimming system which allows you to adjust the intensity of light in different rooms.

Banish glare
To avoid errors, fatigue and accidents in the workplace, it is important to limit glare. In indoor workplaces, glare can be caused by bright luminaires or windows. Direct glare from light bulbs can cause eyestrain. “Avoid direct glare by positioning lights so you can’t see the bulbs directly,” says Poyurs. “Use lampshades and adjustable lamps to achieve ambient lighting without the glare.”

Reflected glare, such as that on computer screens, can also cause eyestrain. But its worst effect may be that you subconsciously change your posture in order to see well. This can lead to back and neck problems. Use blinds to reduce glare and soften the light.

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