Any business owner would like to believe their team is motivated and productive. But how many of them stop to consider the working environment and the impact it has on those operating in it? Furthermore, would they be surprised to learn that the right type of lighting can have a seriously positive effect on wellbeing and productivity?
Seeing the light
Circadian lighting promotes functionality, efficiency and performance and studies have shown that people working in low wavelength blue light performed 10-25% better than counterparts working in high blue wavelength light. The high blue wavelength of LED and fluorescent lights, trigger alertness and productivity during the day but deregulate the circadian cycle at night. This is detrimental to long term health because it can be the precursor to sleep disorders, heart disease, obesity and depression.
Biodynamic lighting controlled by employees can help to increase productivity. Personalised workplace lighting that can be adjusted per individual biodynamics and the task at hand, is the perfect complement to the maximum possible amount of light. Biodynamic lighting systems essentially replicate how daylight and sunlight vary dynamically, and so replicate the positive biological benefits too. A key element of biodynamic light leverages the fact that we are all fitted with blue sky detectors that take their cues from the rising and setting of the sun and prepare us accordingly for rest or activity.
Unsurprisingly, natural light is considered best. While not regulated in the UK, the HSE does suggest minimum levels of natural light, depending on the job type and the sector. Fine or detailed work, for example, will logically need better lighting. Plus, of course, it’s recognised that poor workplace lighting can lead to eye strain, headaches, fatigue and even postural problems. Too little natural light can contribute to conditions such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and can negatively affect alertness and the body’s natural rhythms.
“Often just 13-15 minutes of exposure to natural light are enough to trigger the release of endorphins or “happy hormones”. Dr. Pragya Agarwal, Diversity & Inclusion Consultant
