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Lighting impacts on health and what the industry should know

Adequate lighting and lighting controls, including the provision of emergency lighting, are essential to enable people to work and move around a building or external site safely. Poor lighting, particularly lighting that causes glare, can give visual discomfort which may result in sore eyes, headaches, and aches and pains associated with poor body posture.

It is important for designers, building owners and residents to be aware of all the aspects in which lighting can affect health, avoid risks and improve general mood and behaviour.

Daylight provision in general has been linked to health benefits in a number of studies. Providing daylight in buildings is often a convenient way to achieve the benefits of daytime light in circadian rhythms, resulting in improved health and mood.

BRE experts looked at how lighting designers and building managers can help maximise the health benefits of lighting while minimising risks.

 

Read more in our Lighting and Health publication or check out our facilities and expertise addressing a wide range of lighting issues for further advice.