It's been a while since the study of the positive effect of LED lighting began. Among the results that were gathered, it showed that LED lighting has an impact on the alertness and productivity of an individual. It's the reason why some lighting setups make you feel more productive while others lull you to sleep.
In an office setting, this aspect of LED lighting must be thoroughly considered if you aim to increase your colleagues' and employees' efficiency and effectiveness. One wrong move, and you'll be entering dreamland once your belly is full! So, what LED colour is the best for productivity?
Colour Temperature: What is it, and does it matter?
Colour temperature depicts how the light appears when you look directly at a lit bulb and is measured in degrees Kelvin. LED bulbs with a colour temperature of around 2700K are yellowish white, while those above 5000K are more bluish white. As you go up the scale, the yellow tint becomes less while the blue shade increases.
This aspect of LED lighting is crucial because colour temperature sets the overall atmosphere of the space. You can make it warm and cosy or alert and focused. No matter how carefully structured your lighting design is, if you miss this, the entire visuals of your space may go in a different direction.
What is the ideal colour temperature for office lighting?
Ultimately, natural light is the best lighting for the office. Giant windows with sunshine seeping throughout the space will make everyone feel energised and motivated to get things done. Unfortunately, not every office has the luxury of natural light ready to recharge and rejuvenate people. As a result, they turn to artificial lighting that mimics natural daylight.
Daylight has a colour temperature of about 5000K to 7000K. So, if you’re updating your lighting design and switching out old panels, get an LED light around this range. You see, a higher colour temperature has a more significant impact on alertness, mental activity and the central nervous system.
How does LED affect you?
A bright white light that replicates daylight can enhance your performance at work. In addition, aside from helping you see clearly and finish a task that cannot be done unless there’s sufficient lighting, LED lights also have an impact on your circadian system, alertness, mood, and body clock.
Studies show that exposure to blue light during the day can improve performance and focus. Bluish white light can stimulate your brain, improve sleep quality and enhance attentiveness and execution. The colour temperature and intensity of LED lighting have an effect on the physiological processes in the body, including core temperature, heart rate variability and blood pressure.
Are fluorescents bad for the office?
You may not know, but there are a few negative stories about fluorescent lights that, although there's no scientific basis, many think are true. Here are some that have been going around for some time.
People say that fluorescent lamps can cause migraines. Fluorescent lights cannot cause it, but they can induce a migraine in people who are already suffering from it. You know that if you have been suffering from migraines, bright lights like fluorescents can become an issue. It can easily turn a mild headache into a full-fledged migraine.
Another issue that people are bothered about fluorescents is they can disrupt someone's sleeping pattern. If you leave work before evening and spend some time before going to bed, this will not be an issue, and there will be no sleep pattern disruption. However, if you stay late until the evening and go straight to bed, you may have trouble sleeping as fluorescents tend to suppress melatonin production. In addition, some studies show that fluorescent lamps can make you sleepy and tired during the day.
This may be the most shocking among the rumours surrounding fluorescents: fluorescent lights can cause cancer! Well, this is not true. Although fluorescents emit radiation, it's as low as the radiation you get from a smartphone.
LED vs Fluorescent: Which is better for the office?
Before LED lights, fluorescents have taken over many (if not all) office spaces. However, after some time, concerns about this lighting solution started arising. Thankfully, LED lighting was made and innovated today's lighting industry and addressed many problems that its predecessors could not overcome.
When it comes to office lighting, LEDs are obviously the best choice. Aside from its health and wellness benefits, it's more practical as it's energy-efficient and long-lasting! On top of that, LED lighting can effortlessly complement natural light and create a pleasing and uplifting work environment.
So, it’s a no-brainer that you should choose LED lighting over fluorescents. It checks all the right boxes, and its benefits outweigh its slightly expensive (than fluorescent) initial cost. It's one of the best things that you can do for your business, colleagues, clients, and staff!
Now that you know which colour temperature to use to improve the atmosphere and productivity of your office, it’s time to put it into action. If you’re looking for high-quality LED lighting solutions, visit our website, LED Supplier! We have a wide range of commercial lighting that can address all your lighting needs!
