16 May 2016 | Herpreet Kaur Grewal

Human reaction to light sources should be a primary factor in deciding to deploy them, not just efficiency or cost, according to a report about people’s responses to LED lighting.

The report, commissioned by the Society of Light and Lighting (SLL), part of the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE), and produced by Public Health England, is intended to provide data on the positive and negative effects of exposure to LED light sources.
 
It found that LED solutions are valid energy-efficient options compared with other available light sources because their stated performance is generally accurate, and that none of the LEDs tested presented a risk of retinal damage when used properly.
 
Research also concluded that designers should consider the LED as part of the whole light fixture and the environment in which it is used to determine if it is suitable – a factor that is as important as the price of the LED or its efficiency. 
 
Jeff Shaw, president-elect of the Society of Light and Lighting, said: “This report is a valuable collection of data that will be extremely useful in enabling both the public and private sector to make informed choices when looking to procure LED lighting solutions and promote energy efficiency.”
 
He said LED technology had advanced enormously in the past 10 years, but there were still a lot of things to consider when deciding which solution is best in each case, and how to deliver it. 
“What this report highlights is the need to consult a properly trained and qualified designer or engineer using the latest guidance to get the most out of an LED solution, and to ensure it is the best choice for people and the environment,” he added.
 
Cost was shown to have no significant impact on the flicker or colour rendering of the lamp, but there are potential issues surrounding LED lights that must be factored in when deciding where they should be used, and what kind of fixture is most appropriate for them.

Human Responses To Lighting Based On LED Lighting Solutions can be found here.