Lighting - An Essential Element of Workplace Ergonomics

Good lighting design contributes to employee safety, health, and overall aesthetics, which in turn can result in greater motivation, morale and productivity.
Poor lighting can lead to workplace incidents, poor work performance and fatigue. It can also contribute to visual fatigue, neck and back pain, blurred vision and headaches.
Employers need to provide and maintain suitable lighting in the workplace. Lighting requirements will differ depending on the type of work, the workplace, and the workers’ visual preferences and capabilities.
It is important to consider the effects of lighting decisions as they have immediate and tangible effects on employees and your bottom line.
Lighting can make a room seem smaller or larger, calming or agitating. Reflections, illumination levels, lighting color, glare, flicker and shadows all contribute to eye strain, squinting, headaches, poor posture, and fatigue in the work environment. In addition, poor lighting conditions make work difficult and even dangerous, hiding potential or actual hazards – e.g. steps or torn carpet. These conditions can be identified by observation as well as complaints and comments from employees.
There are several ways to reduce these conditions in the office environment. Illumination levels should be matched to the type of work being performed. Periodic maintenance should be performed and any faulty tubes and/or ballasts should be replaced. Lighting controls, task lighting, diffusers, or shields can be added to better control glare, shadows, and illumination levels at each employee’s workstation.
By Linda Paino
Marketing Manager, Roland’s Electric, Inc.

Established in 1953 by Mr. Roland Cadieux, Roland’s Electric has dedicated itself to the total support of its customers. A commitment to performance and providing innovative solutions to customers’ needs, has made Roland’s Electric a proven leader in electrical contracting on Long Island. Whether large scale turn-key projects, retrofit, rehab, or maintenance, Roland’s Electric has maintained a qualitative edge over its competitors by constantly searching for new ways to better improve its performance. A one-step-ahead” approach utilizing the latest in technology has given our customers the service and cost savings necessary to be successful in today’s market.