OFFICE WORKSTATION DESIGN
5
310-AQT-01-IGDO © 2019, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | www.wsps.ca
Lighting
Lighting levels from 300 to 500 lux are generally considered to be the most appropriate. However, many
offices have twice the level of illumination with few complaints. Sometimes, it is the presence of dark
shadows contrasting with the bright computer display that causes eye fatigue. Task lighting and ambient
lighting should be balanced to reduce harsh contrast and glare.
Glare is also an important aspect of lighting: it can cause visual fatigue and discomfort and it can force
the user to adopt an awkward posture to avoid the glare.
There are different types of glare: direct, indirect and masking:
Direct glare occurs when there are bright light sources directly in the user's field of view
(e.g., windows, etc.).
Indirect glare occurs when light from windows or overhead lighting is reflected off shiny surfaces in
the field of view, such as monitors, desks and other office equipment.
Light from sources directly overhead causes masking glare on the screen, partly obscuring what the
user is trying to focus on.
To reduce glare:
Use light absorbing curtains and blinds
Position terminals so the user's line of sight is parallel to windows and overhead fluorescent lights
Position workstations between rows of overhead lights
Use parabolic filters on overhead lights (these covers only allow light to travel straight down, not
disperse at an angle)
Use indirect lighting (lighting that reflects off ceilings and walls into the work area)
As a last resort, use glass or plastic antiglare screens
WSPS.CA
