How many lux should office lighting be?
Have you ever noticed going home with tired eyes and a pounding head after a long day of work? Perhaps the light in your office is the silent culprit.
Minimum 500 lux
According to the
NEN-EN 12464-1 standard
an office workplace must have a minimum of 500 lux. This ensures that your eyes are not overloaded and you can continue to work optimally. But is that always enough? In a room without daylight or for tasks that require a lot of precision, 750 lux or even 1000 lux may be a better choice. Too little light and your eyes have to work harder, too bright light and it feels like sitting under a construction light. The trick is to find a balance.
Other important issues
It’s not just about the number of lux, but how the light is distributed. Lighting that shines directly into your eyes or reflects on your screen creates discomfort. Indirect light and low glare fixtures (UGR<19) help create a pleasant workplace.
Color temperature also plays a role. Neutral white light (3500-4000K) is ideal for offices because it promotes concentration without feeling too chilly. Warm light (3000K) may be appropriate for more relaxed spaces, while cooler light (5000K) is sometimes used in precision workstations.
How is your office lighting?
Consider your workspace. Is the lighting bright enough without glare? Does the light match the natural daylight outside? Thinking carefully about your office lighting not only ensures a more productive workday, but also less eye strain and a more pleasant work environment.
Want to know if your office meets the right lighting standards?
