Do you wish to design your workplace in an ergonomic way? Do not forget the light and its effect!
Office work is strenuous for your eyes. Good and individually tailored lighting can prevent fatigue and improve one’s performance. Daylight is in general highly valued.
Researchers from Michigan have discovered that prolonged deprivation of daylight damages the brain.
On the other hand, bright light seems to be beneficial for mental activity and memory. So, you should avoid working for too long in a room with poor lighting. As a general rule, the luminous intensity of at least 500 lux is recommended; lighting experts advise 1000 lux.
In my analyses of workplaces, I often find that light is not adequately considered. Common problems are the following:
- High contrast (for example, the screen is in front of the window)
- Disturbing shadow effects
- Reflective glare on the screen (often occurs from windows)
- Flickering light effects
Fortunately, such problems are usually easy to solve.
Make wise use of colors! White room walls and ceilings reflect the light and therefore easily provide more light.
The light color temperature – 5300 Kelvin corresponds to “daylight white” – can also often be influenced favorably by the color scheme of the room.
The intelligent use of light colors can even have a positive effect on the working atmosphere.
The optimum lighting consists of a combination of daylight, direct and indirect lighting and, if necessary, an additional desk lamp.
Affordable “natural daylight lamps” will bring the health benefits of the sun back into the office.
Especially on days with little sunlight, they help to prevent a lack of light.
If the topic of ergonomics in the office or home office appeals to you and you are interested in it more deeply, I can recommend my book “Wellness in the Office”. Combined with humorous drawings, I pass on 50+1 tips to make your office a little paradise.
