To prevent eye strain and work in total comfort, it’s essential to get your workspace lighting right. Here are 10 common mistakes to avoid.
Having only one light source in your office. Your workspace should never rely on a single lighting point. It’s vital to achieve balanced lighting by combining general room illumination with a dedicated desk lamp.
Relying solely on an overhead ceiling light. Avoid using just one central ceiling light, especially directly above your desk, as this can create bothersome shadow areas.
Choosing blinding or excessively bright lighting. Steer clear of installing an overly powerful LED lamp in your office. No lamp should be positioned at less than a 30° angle from your field of vision.
Using the wrong bulb. The bulb is a crucial part of your desk area—make sure it has a suitable CRI. Look for so-called ‘daylight bulbs’ to provide optimal eye comfort.
Light bulbs➞
Selecting an unsuitable lamp. While designer lamps may look attractive, your focus should be on practicality. A lamp with an adjustable arm and movable diffusing shade is much gentler on your eyes during work. Functionality is an absolute must.
Placing a lamp without considering your desk surface. If your desk has a glossy finish, it will reflect both the light and the bulb itself, causing discomfort. Always consider these aspects when choosing where to place your lighting.
Creating too much contrast between your desk lighting and main workspace lighting. Don’t set your desk lamp much brighter than the room’s ambient lighting. Aim for a harmonious balance between the two.
Having inadequate illumination levels. Your workstation needs at least 250 lux. Increase this up to 500 lux, depending on how detailed your tasks are.
Working at your computer without any light behind the screen. If you’re using a computer, install a table lamp behind your monitor for eye comfort.
Lighting without considering your office colours. Make sure your lighting matches the colour of the room’s surfaces—dark colours absorb more light, so compensate with brighter general lighting to maintain a pleasant balance.
