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concept that can be adapted to the different light requirements. The use of
direct and indirect lighting in addition to a balanced day- and artificial light, is
very important.
On the one hand, in offices and at computer work stations a very high level
of indirect lighting is recommended to support non-glaring. On the other
hand, direct lighting provides the essential shadiness for a good illumination.
That is the reason why combining both illumination techniques is vital.
Also, it is necessary to use appropriate bulbs for right illumination (general
lighting), as they support the task lighting in the room. Lights with a
movable luminaire head are highly recommended for a suitable lighting at the
workplace. When both computer-assisted and other tasks have to be managed
from one workplace, individually placed table lamps serve as additional light
sources. At some working places dimmable lights can also be advantageous.
Lighting belongs to the major criteria of ergonomics in the workplace. The
term ergonomics is derived from the Greek expressions ergon (engl. work)
and nomos (engl. law). This scientific approach aims on designing the
respective workplace and working environment to
to the needs of every single worker. The following lighting factors have a
negative impact on the lighting at a working place and should be avoided.
Light has different functions that have to be taken into consideration for
comprehensive assessment of a lighting concept in a room. Illumination does
not only support the visual perception and therefore the information
brokerage, but it is also signified by psychic-emotional and psychicbiological effects.
The visual perception in a room is initially achieved by illumination. Therefore,
ceiling fixtures have to be chosen individually according to the room condition.
In addition, table lights and floor lamps can intensify the lighting effect. They
are also able to zoom in on information processing and mental stimulation at
the same time.
The appropriate use of daylight and artificial light can have a strong impact on
the psychic-emotional factors of lighting. Other factors that are influenced by
light are health and performance. An ergonomically designed lighting can
be very supporting and as studies have proofed, a good illumination at the
working place has also an impact on motivation.
The German Ordinance for Work with Visual Display Units (BildscharbV)
implements the minimum standards in Germany regarding safety and health at
computer workstations (EG-Directive 90/270/EWG). Additionally, the workplaces
ordinance (ArbStttV) regulates more important issues regarding lighting at the
workplace.
For the evaluation of quality of illumination, a variety of parameters is analyzed.
The major criteria are lighting level and illuminance, harmonic brightness
control, light color, direction of light and restriction of glare and shadiness.