Lighting for work: A review of visual and biological effects

Abstract

With the detection in 2002 of a novel photoreceptor cell in the eye, the biological effects that light has can be better understood. From the research on the biological effects of lighting, it is evident that the rules governing the design of good and healthy lighting installations are, to a certain degree, different from the conventionally held rules. We demonstrate that it can be beneficial to be able to adapt both the level and the colour of the lighting. Not only the light on the visual task, but also that entering the eye determines the overall quality of lighting. In a working environment, not only are the advantages in terms of health and wellbeing important for the workers themselves, they also lead to better work performance, fewer errors, better safety, and lower absenteeism. © The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers 2004.