Low wattage lighting provides a more consistent level of softer lighting than high wattage bright lights. Installing low wattage overhead lighting can help reduce the effects of light sensitivity, shadows and glare for people in the work place. Low wattage overhead lighting is generally sourced from fluorescent and incandescent bulbs, with fluorescent bulbs providing a more diffuse light. If more intense light is required in order to focus on specific tasks, task lighting or supplementary wall lighting may be required.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
For individuals with vision impairment, lighting in the workplace is often required to be enhanced by two to three times for adequate vision. Overall workplace lighting should be reviewed to ensure it meets all Australian Standards, minimises shadows and glare and then individual enhanced lighting requirements considered. Suitably qualified lighting consultants may be able to provide specialist lighting advice.
The following information on lighting may also be of interest:
References
Vision Australia 2010, Lamps-accessories, Vision Australia, Enfield, Sydney, viewed 20 February 2011, http://www.visionaustralia.org/info.aspx?page=777.