Light ergonomics
Light ergonomics is the relationship between the light source and the individual.[1] Poor light can be divided into the following:
- Individual or socio-cultural expectations
- Insufficient light
- Poor distribution of light
- Improper contrast
- Glare
- Flicker
- Thermal heating (over or under)
- Acoustic noise (especially fluorescents)
- Color spectrum (amber street lighting)
Effects of poor light
The effects of poor light can include the following:
- low productivity
- high human error rates
- inability to match or select correct colors
- eyestrain
- headache
- a reduction in mental alertness
- general malaise
- low employee morale
Recommended Illumination Levels[2] Type of Activity Ranges of Illuminations (Lux) Public spaces with dark surroundings 30 Simple orientation for short temporary visits 50 Working spaces where visual tasks are only occasionally performed 100 Performance of visual tasks of high contrast or large scale 300 Performance of visual tasks of medium contrast or small size 500 Performance of visual tasks of low contrast or very small size 1000 Performance of visual tasks near threshold of person's ability to recognize an image 3000-10000
Types of light sources
Light Bulbs[3] Type Common Application Efficiency Colour Rendering Fog-Smog Penetration Incandescent Homes Poor Good Fluorescent Home&Office Good Fair to good Mercury Factories, offices Fair Fair to moderate Low pressure sodium Roadway Good Poor Good High pressure sodium Factories, commercial Good Fair to good Good Metal Halide Factories, commercial Good Good Light-emitting diode (LED) Home & office, commercial, industrial Excellent Good
See also
References
- ↑ "The Ergonomics of Light" by Bradford J. Powell, Buildings.com, October, 2002, retrieved November 3, 2007
- ↑ Illuminating Engineering Society of North America. RIESNA Lighting Handbook. (9th ed.). Illuminating Engineering Society of North America. ISBN 0-87995-150-8.
- ↑ "Lighting Ergonomics - General" by Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety, CCOHS, January, 2003, retrieved November 3, 2007
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