We often give ergonomics tips that involve proper body movement and fitness advice for a number of everyday activities, but did you know lighting can have a serious impact on the health and productivity of employees in the workplace? Poor lighting can harm office workers, leading to several negative consequences:
- Low morale.
- Decreased productivity.
- Increased absenteeism.
- Headaches and eye strain.
- Low rates of energy.
- Decreased alertness.
Proper workplace ergonomics can make a big difference in the success of your team. Read on for 3 ergonomics tips for setting up lighting in the office.
3 Ergonomics Tips for Lighting
1. Lighting Should Be Adjustable
Every employee is a different height so adjustable lighting is a must to keep all employees happy. A small task light on each desk that rotates and is bright enough so workers don’t risk eye strain can help. LED task lights are recommended since they are energy efficient, bright and last longer than fluorescent.
2. Focus on the Task
Different work tasks require different types of lighting to avoid fatigue, headaches and eye strain. Computer projects should use a lower level of light than tasks on paper since the screen adds a damaging artificial brightness. Allow workers to find what works for them in each project and encourage comfort in the office.
3. Use Daylight to Your Advantage
Pay attention to daylight and natural lighting because you can use it to your advantage. It’s important to adjust lights based on the time of day and make sure not to place computers near windows to reduce glare. Daylight also helps keep workers alert and energized much better than artificial or LED lighting, so try to place desks and work areas in places that receive lots of natural sun.
Your employees will feel more motivated and less fatigued in a workplace with proper lighting. As an added bonus, using ergonomically-friendly task lighting can cut energy consumption in the office, which saves money and is environmentally-sound.
Letting workers adjust the light level, allowing different options suited for different tasks and using natural light to your advantage are all ergonomics tips for lighting that can benefit your workplace. For more advice on ergonomics, read additional articles on our blog or stop by our showroom in San Jose today.
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