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Lighting
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“The problem with lighting is that each person has their own version of what is best for them. I don’t like much light but my mate needs lots of light to see, the more light the better. Another friend has really dark “sunnies” that block the light and even then it can be too bright for her.”

- Guide Dogs Client

This is an example of the need to use non-reflective material as the floor surface is so well polished it is producing a lot of glare. This is an example of the need to use non-reflective material as the floor surface is so well polished it is producing a lot of glare.

This is an example of the need for good lighting as the room is quite dark which may create problems for a person who is vision impaired. This is an example of the need for good lighting as the room is quite dark which may create problems for a person who is vision impaired.

This is an example of poor lighting on the stairs as the stair case is not easily seen and the details of the stairs are also difficult to see which makes it hazardous for people with vision impairment. This is an example of poor lighting on the stairs as the stair case is not easily seen and the details of the stairs are also difficult to see which makes it hazardous for people with vision impairment.

People with impaired vision often have very different functional needs for lighting. While some people need lots of light to see clearly, others require lower light levels because they are particularly sensitive to glare.

All people with vision impairment benefit from even and consistent lighting

Most people with vision impairment have difficulty when lighting is inconsistent. It can take much longer for their eyes to adapt to the new lighting level. Repeated changes in lighting levels can be hazardous.

Lighting Recommendations

  • Use consistent and even lighting with no dark patches or shadowy areas
  • Install lighting to ensure there is no glare
  • Ensure consistent lighting levels throughout the day in both natural and artificial lighting situations
  • Use non-reflective surfaces to reduce glare e.g. avoid the use of mirrors or highly polished floors.
  • Consider using daylight bulbs and other types of lighting
  • Illuminate all hazardous areas
  • Pathway lighting should cover the entire area.
  • Provide general and task specific lighting
  • Task lighting should be positioned correctly so it does not cause glare or shine into people's faces.
  • Room lighting should be even without shadows in the corners. Task lighting may be useful to prevent a high glare situation throughout the whole room.
  • Stairways should have effective and consistent lighting to provide sufficient detail regarding step height, step edge, handrail height and location.
  • Hazard lighting should illuminate the hazard and the surrounding area so that the pathway around it is clearly visible for people with low vision.
  • Natural light may not be suitable due to its variability.