Proper lighting is a necessary part of working from home.
We need sufficiently bright computer screens and desk or ceiling lights to illuminate our work. But not all forms of light are equal. A light that is too bright or dim can make it harder to concentrate.
Here are four workplace lighting tips to consider for your home office.
Reduce Harsh Lights
Have you ever developed a headache or sore eyes after sitting under a glaringly bright light? You’re far from the only one.
Harsh fluorescent or LED lights and even desktop or laptop screens that are too bright can cause migraines. LEDs and fluorescent bulbs emit blue light and can flicker either imperceptibly or visibly. These particular features can strain your eyes and trigger headaches.
While the sun also emits blue light, artificial light sources produce way more. Too much blue light may interrupt your sleep cycle, making you tired at work from insufficient rest.
Light sources that are less bright and do not flicker are better alternatives.
Fix Dim Lighting
While you don’t want blindingly bright lights, poor illumination also affects your work.
If you look at bright monitors in a dimly lit room, you will probably experience more eyestrain. The contrast of bright screens against a dim room forces your eyes to work harder.
When you work under artificial light, choose lights that are at a comfortable brightness level. If your lamp or ceiling light is getting dimmer, then it is probably time for a replacement bulb.
Take Advantage of Natural Lighting
Using sunlight is one of the best workplace lighting tips to involve in your office setup.
It is not surprising that the sun produces the best light to brighten your home office. When you work in your own home, you don’t need to sit in a depressing windowless office; you can choose the best workplace yourself.
So how can you make the most of sunlight? Set up your office desk in a room with good windows. This way, you can use natural light to your advantage whenever it’s light outside.
Choose Cool Lights Over Warm
While sunlight provides the perfect illumination for your home office, there are times you may be working in the dark.
If you are working late or early or during wintertime, you will need extra lights for your office. The two primary lighting types are considered cool or warm.
Warm lighting is yellow and will make you feel relaxed and comfy. This is great for downtime, but might make you sleepy during work.
Cool light has a whiter appearance and includes blue light. Like sunlight, cool artificial light helps you stay alert and productive.
Optimizing your office’s illumination with these four workplace lighting tips will help you be at your best while working. Not only will your work efficiency improve, but your office will also look much more cheery.
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