The Importance of Human-Centric Lighting in the Workplace
Human-centric design is the study of creating things and spaces with people at the forefront of the design process. This seems like a logical starting point for all designers of all things, but so often the designers are pushed to focus on cost, use of materials, deadlines, and beating a competitor, that design is often driven by everything but the people.
Lighting design is interesting in this regard because often choosing a light source that’s warm white instead of cool white doesn’t cost more, doesn’t take longer, and doesn’t change anything in the supply chain—only the result. Yet, human-centric lighting (HCL) and a focus on circadian rhythms (CR) require convincing clients and end-users that this is important. This post will explore the respective elements of CR and HCL and look (briefly) at the importance of these in the workplace.
Circadian Rhythms
Circadian rhythms are intrinsic biological cycles that regulate numerous physiological processes in all living organisms, including humans. These are governed by an internal master clock located in the brain, and the primary function of these circadian rhythms is to synchronize bodily functions with the natural 24-hour cycle of day and night. Naturally, sunlight plays a crucial role in regulating this.
The intensity, colour spectrum, timing, and duration of the exposure to light influence the synchronization of the internal clock with the external environment and, most importantly, the sleep-wake cycle. Exposure to daylight during the day, especially in the morning, helps to suppress the production of the hormone melatonin, which promotes wakefulness. Conversely, the absence of light or exposure to dimmer, warmer light in the evening signals the body to start producing melatonin, preparing it for sleep.
Circadian rhythms also influence energy levels and alertness throughout the day. Exposure to bright, blue-enriched light during the daytime promotes feelings of alertness, concentration, and cognitive performance. This is essential for productivity and mental acuity during waking hours.
*Aside – this is also why it’s encouraged that you stay off electronic devices like phones and tablets after sunset, as they emit very strong blue-light wavelengths, that will impact your ability to have a healthy sleep-wake cycle.
Natural light (“sun”) exposure has been linked to mood regulation and emotional well-being. Sunlight triggers the release of serotonin, the “happy” hormone associated with mood elevation and happiness. Insufficient exposure to natural light, particularly during the winter months, can lead to feelings of depression and lethargy.
Circadian rhythms influence the secretion of many hormones involved in metabolism, immune function, and stress response. Disruptions to this circadian system, such as irregular sleep patterns or shift work, can dysregulate the hormone levels and increase the risk of metabolic disorders, immune dysfunction, mood disorders, and, according to recent research, an increased risk of cancer. Properly synchronized rhythms contribute to better sleep quality, enhanced cognitive function, improved mood, and a strengthened immune system.
Human Centric Lighting
At its core, HCL aims to mimic the natural patterns of daylight to regulate our circadian rhythms. This is achieved through dynamic lighting solutions that adjust intensity, colour temperature, and spectral composition throughout the day to align with the body’s natural rhythms. Essentially, using artificial light to mimic natural light and how it changes. Warm light can promote relaxation and comfort, while cool light can enhance focus and productivity.
Advanced HCL systems are capable of automatically adjusting the intensity and colour temperature of light throughout the day to simulate the natural changes in daylight – from soft and warm (resembling sunrise) to cool and bright (daylight) and back to warm and cosy (sunset). This helps to synchronize our internal clocks and promote alertness during the day while facilitating relaxation towards the end of the day.
One of the largest problems that arose out of the typical open-plan office from the 20th century was that office workers were exposed to bright, daylight-like lights (read: “super-budget and hateful fluorescent lighting”) until well past sunset many days. This caused internal clocks to go out of sync. Result: a poor night’s sleep. Workers wake up tired, productivity drops, so working late to make up for the day, getting home late and overstimulated, and having a poor night’s sleep. Repeat.
One of the things we usually focus on in all projects is lighting control, not only the light. How you switch your lights on and off. Can they dim? How do they dim? Are you using automation? Are your lights turning on with motion sensors, or did Google do it because the sun has set? All these elements can overwhelm a residential client (we’ve seen this firsthand on more than one occasion); but the larger commercial projects have a different challenge – Who will manage that?
Advanced control systems enable users to personalize lighting settings according to their preferences and needs. This may include manual control through user interfaces (wall switches) or automated control based on occupancy, time of day, or ambient light levels (automation and smart homes). In addition to its biological effects, HCL prioritizes visual comfort by minimizing glare, shadows, and flicker, thus creating a more pleasant and visually stimulating environment.
It seems logical that people that have good, healthy rhythms and nice working environments are happier, more rested, and more productive. This means higher efficiency in the workplace, higher turnover, and higher success in learning in education. So why are so many clients fighting this?
Our first thought is that many don’t understand the science behind HCL, and therefore think it’s not applicable to them. Human-centric lighting is an innovative approach to lighting design that focuses on the impact of light on human health, well-being, and performance. Unlike traditional lighting systems that primarily prioritize visibility and energy efficiency, HCL considers the biological, emotional, and cognitive responses of the individuals. If we adjust the artificial light in a space, we can tangibly impact how the occupants feel and perform daily.
Given the profound impact of circadian rhythms and natural light on human health and well-being, designing indoor environments that support these rhythms through human-centric lighting practices is crucial. Overall, we seek to create lighting environments that enhance the quality of life, productivity, and satisfaction for occupants in various settings, including schools, workplaces, healthcare facilities, and residential spaces.
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