Workplace Woes: The Unseen Impact of Light Pollution

In 2023 the 650 million square feet of commercial real estate in India had their lights on at greater than or equal to 75%!

That's a lotta of light for a lotta people!

Did you know that $200 billion is wasted on energy within the commercial real estate sector and almost 40% of that energy wastage comes from lighting inefficiencies? The problem is exacerbated by the fact that, on average, 30% of the energy used in commercial buildings is squandered, highlighting substantial opportunities for cost savings through more efficient practices.

But have you ever stopped and thought of a better way to save costs on your lighting management system at your workplace?

Well let's shed some "light" on this edition of the Adappt Chronicle

But before we do.

Is your workspace not nearly as efficient as you'd like to be?

In 2023 global real estate heads and facility managers of Fortune 100 companies said they are keeping the utmost priority on acqiuring occupancy data across their workspaces but they lack the tools and the knowledge to do so.

It's time to Adappt!

From occupancy to lighting, we've got it covered.

If you'd like to level up your workspace today, let's talk!

Before we begin let's look at a few interesting stats and figures on lighting at the workplace

In a survey conducted by CII - Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) of 100 workspaces across India, they found that:

64% of offices had illuminance levels lower than recommended

60% of the survey respondents reported problems related to their eyes. Eye strain was the main problem reported, which is due to low lighting conditions.

Only 10% of offices met the equivalent melanopic lux standards during the morning hours. Equivalent melanopic lux’ (EML) is a metric that characterizes circadian light, or light that acts as a stimulus for the human circadian system

74% of people reported no external view or only poor-quality views from their workstations

What are some of the main causes of lighting inefficiencies at the workplace today?

• Incandescent Bulbs: These are highly inefficient compared to modern lighting solutions, converting less than 5% of energy into light and the rest into heat. They also have a shorter lifespan.
• T12 Fluorescent Lamps: Older fluorescent lamps, like T12s, are less energy-efficient than newer T8 or T5 lamps and have a shorter average life span. They also often require magnetic ballasts, which consume more energy than the electronic ballasts used in newer fluorescent or LED fixtures.
• Lack of Controls: The absence of or outdated lighting controls (like timers, occupancy sensors, or daylight harvesting technology) can lead to unnecessary energy use, with lights on in unoccupied spaces or during daylight hours.
• Improper Design or Layout: Inefficient placement or use of fixtures can result in over-lighting, contributing to energy waste. This also includes the lack of task-oriented lighting design and overuse of artificial lighting.
• The Human element: Employees and staff often forget to switch off lights when it is not in use. Forgetting to turn off lights is a major reason for light pollution and wastage.

What is light pollution? What are its forms?

Workplace light pollution refers to the inappropriate or excessive use of artificial light in office environments, which can have several negative consequences for health, productivity, and energy usage.

It's a subset of a broader environmental issue known as light pollution, typically associated with outdoor night time lights that disrupt ecosystems and obscure the night sky.

In the context of the workplace, light pollution takes on a slightly different character, focusing more on the implications for human well-being and efficiency.

Here's how it manifests and why modern office designs might contribute to the problem:

Forms of Workplace Light Pollution:

• Over-illumination: This refers to the use of artificial light beyond what's necessary for a safe and comfortable environment. It often results from the use of overly bright lights, too many lights, or a combination of natural and artificial light that exceeds comfort levels.
• Glare: Excessive brightness relative to the background light, causing discomfort or impairing vision. This can be direct glare from light sources or reflective glare from surfaces like desks, screens, and whiteboards.
• Improper Spectrums: The use of lighting with inappropriate colour spectrums for the environment or time of day, which can disrupt natural circadian rhythms. For instance, blue light is stimulating and can be beneficial during the day but disruptive at night.

How does light pollution impact employee health and productivity?

Lighting in the workplace is crucial for maintaining a productive and healthy environment. However, when improperly managed, it can lead to various issues, significantly impacting employees' well-being and efficiency. Below, we delve into the specific aspects of how light pollution in the workplace affects health and productivity:

The Connection Between Light Pollution and Employee Fatigue

• Physical Strain: Over-illumination or excessive glare can cause eye strain, leading to tired eyes, headaches, and overall fatigue. Employees may find themselves feeling tired earlier in the day, particularly if they spend significant time reading, analyzing data, or performing tasks that require visual precision.
• Mental Exhaustion: Constant exposure to inappropriate lighting levels can lead to irritability and difficulty concentrating. The mental effort required to focus amidst the discomfort can accelerate the onset of fatigue, reducing the employee's capacity to work effectively.
• Stress and Burnout: Chronic fatigue from daily exposure to poor lighting conditions can contribute to higher stress levels. Over time, this can lead to burnout, as employees feel constantly drained and unable to recuperate fully before the start of another workday. Just imagine if an organization loses a minimum of $2/day/employee due to inefficient lighting which amounts to $3.4 million just because of lighting and that's crazy!Check out this amazing article from Veris on the 5 Human Senses In The Workplace

• Sleep Disruption: Exposure to high levels of artificial light, especially blue light, during the evening, can suppress the secretion of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. This disruption can lead to difficulties falling asleep, restless night sleep, and overall reduced sleep quality.
• Health Implications: Long-term disruption of circadian rhythms has been linked to adverse health conditions, including sleep disorders, obesity, diabetes, depression, bipolar disorder, and seasonal affective disorder. These conditions can arise from persistent misalignment between the internal body clock and the external environment.
• Cognitive Impairment: A consistent sleep pattern is crucial for cognitive functions like memory, attention, and learning. Disrupted circadian rhythms can impair these cognitive processes, diminishing an employee's ability to perform tasks that require critical thinking or problem-solving skills.

• Distraction and Discomfort: Overly bright workspaces can cause visual discomfort and headaches, leading to frequent breaks and a loss of focus. Employees might find themselves unable to concentrate on tasks, leading to decreased productivity and increased error rates.
• Reduced Morale: Constant discomfort from excessive light can lead to decreased job satisfaction. Employees who are not comfortable are less likely to be engaged with their work, leading to a decline in morale and motivation.
• Absence and Turnover: Persistent issues with workplace conditions, including poor lighting, can contribute to higher absenteeism. Employees suffering from the health effects of over-illumination may take more sick days, and in extreme cases, poor working conditions can lead to increased staff turnover.

Ways To Mitigate Light Pollution: Strategies and Solutions

1. Embrace Natural Light: "Let the Outside In"

• Rethink Your Windows: Advocate for workspace designs that incorporate large, clear windows or skylights, and smart window shades that allow natural light to permeate work areas. This strategy reduces the need for artificial lighting, aligns employees' circadian rhythms with the natural world, and even boosts mood and productivity.
• Persuasive Point: Discuss the psychological benefits of natural light, referencing studies that link sunlight exposure to reduced stress, improved mood, and increased mental energy. Emphasize the potential for decreased healthcare costs and increased employee satisfaction.

2. Intelligent Lighting Systems: "Smart Light for Smart Work"

• Adaptive Lighting: Implement lighting systems that adjust based on the time of day and available natural light. These systems reduce energy consumption during bright daylight hours and adjust to softer, warmer tones as evening approaches.

• Lighting sensors: Lighting sensors revolutionize workspace illumination, bringing intelligence and adaptability to lighting systems. They detect environmental factors like natural light levels and room occupancy, automatically adjusting the artificial lighting accordingly. This not only conserves energy by turning off or dimming lights in unoccupied spaces but also ensures optimal lighting conditions, enhancing comfort and productivity. Integrating sensors with advanced control systems allows for personalized settings, catering to individual preferences and tasks, thereby creating a more efficient, responsive, and smartly-lit work environment.
• Persuasive Point: Highlight the energy savings and environmental benefits, emphasizing the reduction in carbon footprint. Also, discuss the aesthetic and comfort improvements, creating a more pleasant work environment that adapts to human needs.

3. Personal Control Over Lighting: "Your Light, Your Way"

• Individual Light Control: Provide employees with the means to control the lighting in their immediate environment. This personalization can prevent over-illumination, reducing overall light pollution and energy use, and allowing individuals to set lighting that suits their tasks and preferences.
• Persuasive Point: Stress the empowerment aspect, where employees feel more in control of their workspace, potentially boosting job satisfaction and productivity. Reference studies linking personal control over work conditions to increased overall well-being.

4. Education and Awareness: "Enlightening Our Workspace"

• Workshops and Training: Organize educational sessions to inform staff about the importance of reducing light pollution and practical steps they can take, such as judiciously using task lighting, and turning off unnecessary lights.
• Persuasive Point: Position these educational initiatives as team-building and value-driven activities that enhance company culture. Employees appreciate when their company takes stands on environmental and health issues, improving morale and company loyalty.

5. Eco-Friendly Advocacy: "Green Light, Go Green"

• Sustainable Practices: Adopt broader eco-friendly practices in the workplace, such as using energy-efficient appliances and encouraging public transportation or carpooling. Make reducing light pollution part of a comprehensive sustainability campaign.
• Persuasive Point: Draw connections between eco-friendly practices and corporate social responsibility, enhancing the company's public image. Also, emphasize the long-term cost savings associated with energy-efficient practices.

6. Collaborative Design: "Shaping Our Illuminated Future Together"

• Inclusive Planning: Involve employees in the redesigning process of workspaces or in choosing new lighting solutions. Their input can provide valuable insights into the practical needs and preferences, ensuring a more functional and well-received outcome.
• Persuasive Point: Highlight the benefits of a bottom-up approach, creating a sense of ownership and acceptance of changes among employees. This collaborative method can foster a stronger, more positive company culture.

So is the future "Bright"?

The future of workplace lighting is set to be dynamic, adaptive, and human-centric, prioritizing both efficiency and well-being. As we navigate this bright future, several key trends and advancements are taking centre stage:

Emerging Technologies in Adaptive and Smart Lighting

1. Internet of Things (IoT) Integration: Future workplace lighting will leverage IoT technology, allowing lighting systems to be interconnected with other devices and managed in real-time via a central platform. This integration means lighting won't just respond to occupancy; it will adjust according to various factors like task specifics, time of day, or even weather conditions.
2. Predictive Analytics and Maintenance: With IoT, lighting systems can predict and relay maintenance needs, reducing downtime and resource wastage. They can analyze usage patterns over time, adjusting operations to optimize energy use and extend fixture longevity.
3. Human-Centric and Circadian Lighting: Advanced lighting systems will use biodynamic designs that mimic natural light patterns, promoting alignment with human circadian rhythms. By varying colour temperatures and lighting levels throughout the day, these systems support natural sleep-wake cycles, enhancing mental and physical health.
4. Personalized Lighting Profiles: Leveraging smart technology, employees will have personalized lighting profiles that follow them through the workspace, adjusting fixtures based on individual preferences or task-related needs.
5. Advanced Light Control and Automation: Light control will become increasingly sophisticated, using sensors and machine learning to make real-time adjustments for efficiency and comfort. For instance, fixtures could automatically dim when bright sunlight fills the room, or path lighting could activate to guide individuals through low-traffic areas during off-peak hours.
6. Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Innovations: Sustainability will drive innovation, with advancements in LED technology offering higher efficacy rates, delivering more lumens per watt used. Additionally, new materials and manufacturing processes will reduce the environmental impact of producing lighting fixtures.

Prioritizing Employee Well-being Through Light Design

1. Designing for Comfort and Productivity:The link between lighting, comfort, and productivity will guide design strategies. Optimal lighting reduces eye strain and the risk of headaches, fatigue, and irritability, all while enhancing mood and energy levels. Workspaces will prioritize natural light and provide quality task lighting, considering factors like glare, brightness, and colour temperature to create a comfortable environment.
2. Flexible and Adaptive Workspaces: As flexible working arrangements become more prevalent, lighting design will adapt to multifunctional spaces. Movable fixtures, adjustable lighting levels, and colour temperatures in personal and collaborative spaces will cater to varying activities and preferences.
3. The Role of Lighting in Workplace Wellness Programs:Lighting design will become a pillar of workplace wellness initiatives. Beyond ergonomics and air quality, the right lighting can reduce stress, improve mood, and contribute to overall employee health. Companies will increasingly recognize this, integrating lighting into their broader approach to employee well-being.
4. Mental Health and Lighting: With a growing focus on mental health, lighting that supports a positive mood and reduces the risk of disorders related to circadian rhythm disruptions (like seasonal affective disorder) will be integral. Specialized lighting conditions could even be used for relaxation spaces, therapy rooms, or mindfulness areas within the workplace.
5. Employee Empowerment Through Control:Providing employees with control over their lighting environment empowers them to create conditions that best support their comfort and productivity. This personal agency can increase job satisfaction, with lighting systems offering user-friendly interfaces for personal adjustment
6. Feedback and Continuous Improvement: Future lighting systems will allow for feedback on user comfort and preferences, continuously learning and adapting to improve the workspace environment. This two-way interaction creates a responsive, dynamic system that evolves with the workforce's needs.

Conclusion

It is an exciting time for offices to experiment and try out the latest lighting technology, especially in the era of hybrid work taking centre stage.

Careful planning of interior layouts and well-designed windows with appropriate glazing can provide a high-quality lighting environment by maximizing daylight and access to outdoor views.

Design for minimizing glare coupled with the correct operation of glare control mechanisms ensures that people receive the full benefits of both available daylight and external views.

Implementing state-of-the-art lighting control sensors to take advantage of daylight savings, intelligent lighting control systems and occupancy-based lighting to plan, understand, save and optimize lighting within workspaces should think about the bigger picture in terms of employee comfort, well-being and sustainability.

For Additional reading:

• Commercial Building Lighting Mistakes that Cost You Money
• How to Make a Commercial Building More Energy-Efficient
• About the Commercial Buildings Integration Program
• Upgrade Your Lighting
• How to Improve Energy Efficiency in Commercial Buildings