How do you evaluate lighting for facilities?

1 Lighting Standards and Codes

Before you start evaluating lighting for facilities, you need to know the lighting standards and codes that apply to your project. These are the minimum requirements for lighting design and performance, based on the type, function, and location of the facility. For example, the International Building Code (IBC) and the National Electrical Code (NEC) are two common codes that regulate lighting in the US. Additionally, there are various standards and guidelines from organizations such as the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES), the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), and the US Green Building Council (USGBC) that provide recommendations and best practices for lighting quality and efficiency.

2 Lighting Metrics and Measurements

To evaluate lighting for facilities, you need to understand the basic metrics and measurements that describe the quantity and quality of light. The most common metric is the illuminance, which is the amount of light falling on a surface, measured in foot-candles (fc) or lux (lx). The illuminance level depends on the type and number of light sources, the distance and angle from the surface, and the reflectance of the surface. Another important metric is the luminance, which is the amount of light reflected or emitted by a surface, measured in candelas per square meter (cd/m2) or nits. The luminance level affects the perception of brightness and contrast, as well as the potential for glare. Other metrics that you need to consider are the color rendering index (CRI), which indicates how well a light source reproduces the colors of objects, and the correlated color temperature (CCT), which indicates the color appearance of a light source, measured in Kelvin (K).

To measure these metrics, you need to use some basic tools, such as a light meter, a colorimeter, or a spectrometer. A light meter is a device that measures the illuminance level at a point or an area, using a sensor and a display. A colorimeter is a device that measures the CRI and CCT of a light source, using a filter and a photodetector. A spectrometer is a device that measures the spectral distribution of a light source, using a prism or a grating and a detector. These tools can help you assess the lighting performance and quality in your facility.

3 Lighting Design and Layout

Another aspect of evaluating lighting for facilities is the lighting design and layout, which involves the selection and placement of light fixtures, lamps, and controls. The lighting design and layout should match the intended use and function of the space, as well as the aesthetic and environmental goals of the project. For example, you need to consider the task requirements, the visual comfort, the ambiance, and the energy efficiency of the lighting system. You also need to consider the integration of natural and artificial light, using strategies such as daylighting, dimming, and switching.

To evaluate the lighting design and layout, you need to use some methods, such as calculations, simulations, or mock-ups. Calculations are mathematical methods that estimate the illuminance and luminance levels, based on the lighting parameters and the geometry of the space. Simulations are computer-based methods that model the lighting behavior and appearance, using software and data. Mock-ups are physical methods that test the lighting effects and impressions, using real or scaled models and samples. These methods can help you verify and optimize the lighting design and layout in your facility.

4 Lighting Maintenance and Operation

The final aspect of evaluating lighting for facilities is the lighting maintenance and operation, which involves the inspection and repair of the lighting system, as well as the monitoring and adjustment of the lighting conditions. The lighting maintenance and operation should ensure the reliability and durability of the lighting system, as well as the satisfaction and feedback of the occupants and the operators. For example, you need to consider the lamp life, the fixture performance, the control functionality, and the lighting quality and efficiency.

To evaluate the lighting maintenance and operation, you need to use some tools and methods, such as audits, surveys, or meters. Audits are systematic methods that assess the condition and performance of the lighting system, using checklists and records. Surveys are subjective methods that collect the opinions and preferences of the occupants and the operators, using questionnaires and interviews. Meters are objective methods that measure the actual lighting conditions and consumption, using sensors and devices. These tools and methods can help you improve and update the lighting maintenance and operation in your facility.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?