Office Lighting Solutions
Lighting is undoubtedly one of the most critical elements for an office to function productively. Without sufficient lighting it can be difficult to read, concentrate or just see what you’re doing. So the negligible cost of proper lighting in the greater scheme of things should be a no brainer!
As an employer there’s a responsibility to provide sufficient lighting for your workers OH&S. You can read more about your obligations and the effects of poor lighting on your workers at SafeWork.
There’s a myriad of lighting styles and designs out there so it’s easy to get confused. We’ve put together what we believe to be the most important elements to consider. MLM Electric can provide a custom lighting design solution for your office, shop or workspace. Whether it be a new fit-out or retrofit
Natural Light
Maximising the use of natural light in any workspace space is very important. It’s cost effective, and positively impacts mood, productivity and general well-being. It’s also free!.
Colour rendering index or CRI is the ability of a light to accurately represent the object it is illuminating and natural light gets a perfect score (100) This is a often overlooked spec of lighting but it is critically important.
If you’re concerned about heat or glare you can install blinds, louvres or a tint to filter the light.
LED Lighting
LED lighting has usurped most other types of artificial lighting in recent years due to its increased energy efficiency, long lifespan and reduced maintenance costs. Many LED lights now come as tri-colour so you can choose between warm white, cool white and daylight. The last two being the most suitable for offices and general working light. They’re also marginally more energy efficient than warm white but on the downside can feel quite clinical so should be avoided if you’re after a comfortable ambience.
CRI as mentioned earlier is also critical to consider with LED lights. Ideally 90+ CRI should only be used. Most stock standard LED is only 80+. Halogen lighting is 90+
Some of the various LED lighting options available are panel lights, LED strip, track lights, downlights, recessed linear lights. A combination of any or all of these could be utilised to achieve the desired end result.
Please have a look at the Energy Rating Fact Sheet for more information on choosing LED lights or Call Now
Task Lighting
Task lighting is specifically designed to illuminate work areas in an office. It can be used in conjunction with other lighting types to provide a focused and adjustable light. This is particularly useful for work areas that require precise work, such as jewellers, architects, designers or just to facilitate reading.
Floor lamps or desk lamps are common options for task specific lighting. They can be easily adjusted and directed to the precise area that needs illumination. Lamps where the height and beam angle can be adjusted are advisable.
Pendant Lighting
Pendant lighting is an excellent choice when lighting a shop, office, meeting room or reception.
Lighting should ideally come from different levels and not just from the ceiling. This is an important and little known element of lighting design. The height of a ceiling will either permit or prohibit the use of pendant lights. High ceilings can feel cavernous and pendant lights can help reduce that feeling. Pendant lights can be installed much lower than what would usually be acceptable if there is a table or similar below. This is because the worry of bumping into it is no longer a concern.
These suspended fittings are also ideal for task specific lighting as they can be hung low and close to where the light is needed most.
Reflected Lighting
Reflected lighting involves illuminating or highlight architectural features or artwork. The great advantage is that the light is indirect. This eliminates glare which is super important and creates a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.
Obviously there is an efficiency loss if the light has to bounce off another object before it gets to where you need it. However this is usually a small price to pay for the benefits it brings
Motion Sensors
Motion sensors are a great energy-saving solution for seldom used areas or shared office spaces. It’s beneficial for common areas, such as bathrooms or hallways where lighting is often left on when no one is around.
Motion sensors are triggered when someone enters a room and turn off automatically after an adjustable time delay. This saves electrical energy as well as human energy and time as it eliminates the need for manual light switching. This can also be a helpful for people with mobility issues.
Get your shop or office lighting design correct and witness it evolve into a hub of productivity and happiness.
If you’d like to book a commercial electrician in the Port Macquarie region or would just like to know more Call Now 0416 501 728
