Winter brings cooler temperatures and shorter days. We spend a bit more time indoors, and bit less time in natural light. This means that we spend more time relying on indoor lighting, both at home and in the office. With that in mind, it is important that lighting choices are made with efficiency and individual well-being in mind. Consider the following:
- Proper lighting keeps the workplace safe. Safety in the workplace is of utmost important. Any task that could be dangerous without proper lighting, such as cutting or using power tools, should most obviously be done in a well-lit area. Hallways and stairways should also be properly illuminated.
- Lighting affects physical health. While it isn’t likely that one will suffer long-term effects from staring at computer screens or working in poorly lit areas, it can lead to eyestrain, discomfort, and headaches. It is wise to have the area around your computer monitor at roughly the same brightness as the screen itself. Otherwise, workers may develop discomfort glare. This is similar to what you experience when coming inside after being out in the bright daylight.
- Lighting affects mental health. Exposure to natural light has been shown to decrease depression and increase energy. Blue-enriched light (measuring 17,000K) has been effectively used to treat Season Affective Disorder.
- Lighting affects sleep, which in turn, also affects physical and mental health. Artificial lighting suppresses melatonin, which interferes with sleep, making your body believe it is daytime when it isn’t. Warm hued and dim lights (up to 3,000K) are better choices during evening hours.
- Lighting affects work. Cool light closer to the color of the midday sun (above 4,600K) is best for productivity, mental acuity and vitality; it counteracts sleepiness. On the other hand, a mid-range or cool white light (3,100K to 4,600K) is perfect for a conference room as it creates a more inviting space.
The lighting experts at Branham Electric are highly skilled at helping you find the best lighting solutions for your company’s needs. Evaluating your use of natural lighting, solar options, and highly efficient lighting can be a major step to saving money and possibly even putting cash back into your budget. Contact us to learn more.