Lighting has come a long way. But if we look at the up and coming trends for 2018 we can see there is masses of scope for even more mind-blowing technology to add to the already exciting mix of options.
Human-centric lighting is as complex as it sounds. It is the concept of digitally adjusting lighting according to the needs of the people who are using it. The ability to change lighting in response to the mood of a room full of people to make subtle changes in their responsiveness represents enormous power. However this 'power' is rooted in a relativey traditional concept.
We've always used lighting for mood, effect, atmosphere and for optimum sales/productivity (in a commercial capacity) using colour, intensity and timing. So it has long been understood that lighting has a profound effect on everyone - over and above its practical and aesthetic provision. However, human-centric technology takes it further by digitally assessing alertness using biometric sensors. Used ethically it can have a positive effect - imagine a school room or conference where attention is waning and lighting can help get it back on track? It's interesting and quite inspirational.
The American organisation, the International Well Building Institute, has created the "WELL Building Standard" that sets out, in a lot of detail, how to maximise the health and well-being benefits that can be provided within a built environment. This has a whole section on light as you might expect as it is one of the key parts of a building.
"The WELL Building Standard® for Light provides illumination guidelines that are aimed to minimize disruption to the body’s circadian system and enhance productivity and provide appropriate visual acuity where needed. It also requires specialized lighting systems designed to increase alertness, enhance occupant experience and promote sleep." This shows that the trend towards using light to improve productivity, for example, is something employers should take responsibility for - and actually embrace - as it will work in their favour through the resulting benefits.
Having a more alert, harder working team - as a result of the simple act of creating and providing the right lighting - is going to be something we know we are going to see much more of. The Well Building Standard, and similar concepts, will start to become part of all FM briefs going forward as the UK attempts to minimise sick days and motivate its work force through improved working environments.
We support this move towards intelligent lighting solutions as it makes perfect sense for the customer or worker as well as the organisation investing in it. Ask us if you'd like to know more.