GOOD HOUSING DESIGN – LIGHTING

A practical guide to improving lighting in existing homes

Good Practice Guide 5 2nd edition May 2015

About Thomas Pocklington TrustThomas Pocklington Trust is a national charity dedicated to delivering positive changefor people affected by sight loss.

Research is a central part of Pocklington’s work. Each year we fund social and publichealth research initiatives to identify practical ways to improve the lives of people withsight loss and influence the services and facilities that they use.

Our research priorities are:

• The health and wellbeing of people with sight loss

• Housing and built environments that support the independence of people withsight loss

• Building the capacity of organisations and services that work with people with sightloss to shape research and use research findings.

Good Practice GuidesThe Pocklington Good Practice Guide series offers advice and insight based onresearch projects funded by Pocklington. The guides strike a balance between givingthe reader information about the background and research on the topic, andpresenting findings and giving advice. They are not prescriptive, but by drawingtogether experiences of what works, they aim to provide support to professionalsworking with people with sight loss.

In this publication, the terms ‘visually impaired people’, ‘blind and partially sighted people’and ‘people with sight loss’ all refer to people who are blind or who have partial sight.

The photographs in this publication are not intended to show ‘best practice’ but todemonstrate the housing situations in which people with sight loss may live and whereimprovements may be made.

AcknowledgementsInformation for this publication was gatheredand text drafted by Malcolm Fisk of InsightSocial Research Ltd, and Peter Raynham ofBartlett School of Graduate Studies, UniversityCollege London.

This publication builds on Housing for Peoplewith Sight Loss: a Thomas Pocklington DesignGuide. The content of the Guide and thispublication is based on research commissionedby Pocklington and the Housing Corporation,led by Professor Julienne Hanson, BartlettSchool of Graduate Studies, University CollegeLondon, and on research commissioned byPocklington and led by Dr Geoff Cook at theUniversity of Reading.

The content and style of this publication hasbeen informed by people with sight loss and byhousing, support, rehabilitation, occupationaltherapy, lighting and research professionalsworking in: Cardiff Institute for the Blind,Bradford City Council, Devon County Council,‘Focal Point UK’, Göteborg University,Hampshire County Council, HertfordshireCounty Council, London Borough ofKensington and Chelsea, ‘Lighting Solutions’,Medilink West Midlands, Optima Low VisionServices, Portsmouth City Council, RenfrewshireCouncil, Rhondda Cynon Taff Council, RNIBCymru, St Dunstan’s, Sense, the SouthernHealth and Social Services Trust (NI), theSouthern Rehabilitation Workers’ Forum, Stride Treglown Architects, Trafford HousingTrust, London Borough of Waltham Forest and Whitecroft Lighting.

Design: Aplin Clark

Pocklington acknowledges the advice of Andy Fisher,Alison Pope and Jane Vincent. Our thanks also go toSteve Brodrick and Chris Jackson who provided someof the illustrations.

Better lighting at home can make a dramaticdifference to people’s lives. This Good PracticeGuide explains how to improve lighting tomeet the needs of people with sight loss. It will be useful to anyone supporting othersto live independently in their own homes,such as housing and support staff, homeimprovement agencies, rehabilitation workersfor people with visual impairment (ROVIs) andoccupational therapists (OTs). It covers everypart of the home, and is also relevant togrouped accommodation.

This Guide builds on:

• Housing for People with Sight Loss – aThomas Pocklington Trust Design Guide

• the views of staff working with people withsight loss

• expertise in lighting design andinstallation.

This icon indicates that furtherinformation can be found in the UsefulResources section on page 17.

This icon indicates terms which appearin the glossary on page 18.

How common is sight loss?About two million people in the UK have visionimpairment that affects their everyday life.Around one in five people aged over 75, andone in two people aged over 90 are living withsight loss. Sight loss is not only experienced bypeople in older age; over 400,000 working agepeople (below 65 years of age) in the UK alsodeal with its effects on a daily basis. Most peoplebegin to lose their sight in later life because ofnormal ageing of the eye or the onset of age-related eye conditions, and the incidence ofsight loss increases steeply with age. As numbersof older people in the population increase, sowill the number of people with sight loss – it ispredicted that by 2020 the number of peopleaffected will rise to over 2,250,000 and that by2050 the numbers will double to nearly fourmillion.

The nature and degree of a person’s sight loss isrelated to their eye condition. While there is nosingle lighting solution or response to sight loss,general approaches have been shown to beuseful and are described in this Guide. Theseapproaches will make homes safer, more secureand easier to live in and will supportindependence. Applying the advice in thispublication will help the majority of people,whether or not they have sight loss, as well aspeople with other sensory loss.

Scope and purpose

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Contents

Benefits of good lighting 5

Seven characteristics of good lighting 6

Some lighting options 7

Assessing individuals’ needs 8

Equipment 10

Entrances 11

Halls and stairs 12

Living and dining areas 13

Bathrooms, showers and WCs 14

Kitchens and utility areas 15

Bedrooms 16

Useful resources 17

Glossary of lighting terms 18

Appendix 1 Checklist: Occupant lighting needs 19

Appendix 2 Checklist: Assessments of existing lighting 20

Appendix 3Lights and lighting factsheet 22

Reproducing this documentThis publication may be reproduced or copied. Thomas Pocklington Trust welcomes feedback about the use of these materials for monitoring and evaluation purposes.

ForewordLighting in the home has to fulfil several functions. First, lighting has to let people see whatthey need to see quickly and easily, without discomfort. What they need to see can varyfrom the fine print of a prescription, through the colours of clothing to flights of stairs.Second, lighting inevitably contributes to the appearance of the home, both lit and unlit.Third, lighting needs to be economic to run, easy to control and easy to maintain. Thebalance between these functions can shift depending on the visual abilities of the peoplewho live in the home. For people with sight loss, the emphasis shifts towards allowing themto make the best use their remaining visual abilities but without compromising theappearance of the home or the economics and controllability of the lighting.

The problem faced by those attempting to improve the lighting of homes for people withsight loss is that lighting is simultaneously too easy and too difficult. It is too easy to providesome form of lighting and too difficult to provide good lighting. To provide good lighting itis first necessary to identify that the existing lighting is inadequate in some way and then todetermine what should be done to improve it. This Good Practice Guide addresses boththese objectives and provides practical and sensible lighting solutions for existing homes,room by room. For this reason, it is to be welcomed by all those with sight loss and all thosewho seek to enhance the quality of life of people with sight loss.

Peter Boyce, Professor Emeritus, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Thomas Pocklington Trust’s programme of research and development about housing forpeople with sight loss has informed practical improvements in independent and sharedhousing. This research and practice have emphasised that appropriate lighting can make themost of sight and contribute to improved quality of life and independence. That applies toeveryone, and particularly people with sight loss – however that is caused.

This guide combines technical information about lighting with practical experience. It showswhat can be done to make any and every home safer, easier to live in and more pleasant forolder people and people with sight loss. It will be of value to anyone who seeks to supportand enhance independence at home. I hope it will become an indispensable tool.

Mike Brace CBE, Chief Executive, VISION 2020 UK

Health, comfort and wellbeing Natural light is important for personal health andhas implications for mood, sleep and motivation.Most people express a preference for windowsand natural daylight in their homes.

Daylight is usually greater near windows, andreduces when moving further away. Directsunlight can cause harsh shadows and glare thatmay be uncomfortable and make vision moredifficult. Horizontal or vertical blinds are the bestway to reduce glare and control daylight.

Reducing glare is also important when choosingand positioning electric lighting: shades ordiffusers should be used to prevent a direct viewof the lamp from all normal viewing directions.

Some specific health conditions haveimplications for lighting: people with albinismexperience discomfort in bright light; peoplewho are autistic may find bright and/orflickering light disturbing; people with lupusmay be uncomfortable in ultra-violet light;people with dementia may be agitated whendaylight is lacking.

Safety, orientation and securityGood lighting can support individual safety andorientation by illuminating areas of risk (such assteps), tasks (such as chopping vegetables) andby making it easier to find and use door keysand doors. Different colours, types orconfigurations of lights can mark particularfeatures and help with orientation. Lighting alsoincreases security because it can indicate that ahouse is occupied.

Light, sight and fallsAccording to the National Service Framework forOlder People in England, ‘falls are a major causeof disability and the leading cause of mortalitydue to injury in older people aged over 75’.People with sight loss fall more often thanothers: the Audit Commission attributed 90,000falls in England and Wales in a single year tovisual impairment, estimated the cost to theNHS at £130 million and recognised that poorquality lighting was a contributory factor in falls.

Lighting for tasksLighting should help people carry out their usualactivities within their home. There should besufficient light for specific tasks, and an evenlevel of light so that people’s eyes do not needto readjust significantly to different light levelswhen they stop an activity or move away. Easy-to-use controls to switch or dim lights areimportant too.

Benefits of good lighting

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Dementia

A Guide to the design of homes and livingspaces for people with dementia and sightloss emphasises the importance of naturallight, good positioning of lighting anduniformity of lighting levels in and betweendifferent rooms and spaces in the home(University of Stirling, 2014).

Lighting from more than one source is likely tobe more effective than light from a single point.

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Lighting should be part of the routineassessments of the needs of people with sightloss and part of regular reviews of maintenance,refurbishment and adaptations to their homes.Improvements do not have to involve majorworks; big differences can be made with smallchanges and at low cost. The aim is to create avisual environment that:

• maximises useful sight

• is free of glare

• offers an even level of light

• offers easy adjustment and control of alllighting sources and levels.

Discussions with people with sight loss andprofessionals working with them (in visionrehabilitation, occupational therapy, lightinginstallations and housing design andmaintenance) have identified sevencharacteristics of good lighting which can beused to guide decisions about lighting optionsin every room in the home.

Lighting should always be:

1 Appropriate for the individualEach person’s needs are considered andappropriate responses found that meetindividual needs, such as managing glare, andcreating a visual environment that supports theperson’s chosen ambience and activities.

2 Sufficient for tasks, orientation andmovement

For each person, a minimum level of light, fromnatural and / or artificial sources, is provided forambient and task-specific purposes.

3 Even, across different areas and withminimum glare

Deep shadows or sharp changes in light levels,from one room to another or within rooms, donot occur and light levels are as even as possible.To minimise glare, lamps are not directly visiblefrom normal directions of view.

4 Adjustable for flexibilitySwitching, dimming and different lightingelements accommodate varying needs, for tasksor ambience, of all those who live in or visit thehome.

5 Energy efficient and sustainableThe best use is made of energy in meetinglighting needs. Natural light is used effectively –including simple measures such as curtain tiebacks and blinds to control light direction andglare. Appropriate lamps are chosen to meetlighting needs without wasting energy.

6 Simple to install, minimising disruptionExisting wiring and fittings are used whereverpossible. Simple replacements or alterations,such as adding task lights, changingdecorations, colours and furniture layout, oraltering switches or lamps, are consideredbefore major changes.

7 Adaptable for the futureInstallations can be altered to respond tochanging needs, to new occupants and tolighting innovations.

Appendix 1 offers a checklist to supportassessments using these seven characteristics.

There are many options in response toindividual needs and some popular approaches are outlined here.

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Seven characteristics of good lighting

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KitchenUnder-unit lights toilluminate worktops,cooker and sink. Shadesto reduce glare and

shadow.

BedroomWall uplights above bedhead.Lights in wardrobes and

cupboards. More light fittings asnecessary. Automated lighting ongetting in and out of bed.

BathroomMirror lights overbasins. Lights overshowers. Upgrade ofshaver lights.

StairsLight shades to reduceglare. Spotlights tohighlight stair edges.High illuminance on

landings.

Living RoomAdditional ceilingand/or wall lights formore even lightingdistribution.

Freestanding task lightsand uplights asappropriate.

GeneralIndividual switches,dimmable where

possible. Good qualityportable and

adjustable task lights.Judicious use of colourand contrast. Blinds tocontrol natural lightfrom windows.

Some lighting options

Adapted from work by Steve Brodrick (Lighting Solutions) for Thomas Pocklington Trust

Housing for people with sight loss – A Thomas Pocklington Trust designguide, details over a hundred ways thatgood housing design can improve the livesof people with poor sight. It draws onextensive research with visually impairedpeople.

Housing for people with sight loss – apractical guide to improving existinghomes applies the Design Guide in thecontext of housing maintenance andimprovement. Six key points frameguidance across individual homes.

Housing Sight was produced by RNIBCymru to build on Lifetime Homes andaddress housing design that is effective forpeople with sight loss. It addresses colour,reflectivity and contrast, as well as lighting,and has led to further work on colour andcontrast.

Visibly Better is an RNIB accreditationscheme for care homes and shelteredhousing that brings together issues ofcolour, contrast and lighting to informdesign, maintenance and refurbishment.www.rnib.org.uk

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People’s circumstances and needs vary; individualassessments are essential to make the best use ofresources and offer effective responses.

Low Vision Services, vision rehabilitation staffand/or occupational therapists may providedetailed assessments of a person with sight lossand their needs. Assessment procedures aregenerally standardised within different services,and may be linked through a single assessmentprocess.

People with other conditions and needsalongside sight loss (which includes many olderpeople) may not have had a specific sight lossassessment and this means that lighting optionsto make the most of sight may not have beenconsidered. Housing and support staff can thenplay an important role in identifying how tomake the most of sight by improving lighting.

The checklist in Appendix 2 is designed to helpdetermine the lighting needs of anyone with sight loss.

Housing design and maintenance Most housing in the UK was not designed withthe needs of people with sight loss in mind. The principles of universal design have informed recent design standards, such as the Lifetime Homes standards, but these include few references to lighting. New housingmay not address the lighting needs of peoplewith sight loss adequately, or even make themost of the lighting provided.

Pocklington research into lighting the homes of people with sight loss found:

• Low levels of lighting

• Uneven lighting, shadows and dark areas

• Light fittings allowing a direct view of thelamp, causing glare

• Differences between light levels in differentspaces causing adaptation problems whenmoving from room to room

• Poor control with inadequate switching ordimming

• Lack of information on potentialimprovements.

Routine maintenance and refurbishment bylandlords and home owners can incorporatelighting improvements, often at modest cost.

In poor housing the ‘Housing, Health and SafetyRating System’ equips environmental healthinspectors with a tool to identify the ‘risk ofharm’ that can arise, including from ‘lack oflighting’.

Assessing individuals’ needs and meeting lighting needs at home

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Lighting and complex needs For some people sight loss may only be oneaspect of their needs. Improvements in lightingneed to be carefully tailored to their specificsituation, but can have a range of benefits.Anyone with hearing loss is likely to benefit fromlighting that is positioned to illuminate peoplewhen they are speaking.

Mr G. is 90 years old and has advancedmacular degeneration. He lives in a groundfloor sheltered housing flat in Basingstokeand has mild dementia.

A particular problem for Mr G was takinghis medication. He habitually did this in thekitchen but could not easily see his tabletsthere. Under-unit linear fluorescent lightingwas provided to make this easier.

His dementia meant that Mr G did notremember to switch this new lighting onor off. Switching for the main overheadkitchen light was linked with the newunder-unit lights so that all the lights areswitched on and off together.

The lighting changes have made noobvious change to his home, but becauseMr G is able to take his medication safelyhis independence and wellbeing haveimproved.

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Installing new lighting In new housing or major refurbishments,building, electrical or lighting engineers willinstall lighting to a specification provided byarchitects or housing teams.

In other circumstances, installations are definedby an individual usually working with aprofessional such as an occupational therapist(OT) or rehabilitation worker. Who installs thelighting will depend on the work to be done,the services provided by the rehabilitationworker or OT, housing tenure and how work isbeing undertaken and funded.

An effective approach is where a local authoritysensory impairment team works directly with alighting technician, in-house or routinelycommissioned. This happens most often wheninstallations are made in local authority housing,but it can be more widespread. In rentedhousing, landlords must grant permission foradaptations and alterations and may specify orprovide contractors to do the work.

In privately owned housing it will normally benecessary to engage a private contractor or aHome Improvement Agency (HIA). Localauthorities and local Age UK organisations mayprovide lists of appropriate contractors.

Minimising disruptionMost people do not like disruption in theirhome and lighting installations and alterationsshould be carried out with minimum disruptionand without the need for re-decoration. Thismeans that, whenever possible, new lightingshould be provided without changes to existingwiring and fittings. Changes to mains wiring canbe expensive and building regulations requiresuch changes to be undertaken, inspected andapproved by a qualified person. Minimaldisruption and maximum effect can be achievedin different ways.

• Floor or table lamps can be plugged intoexisting wall sockets.

• Ceiling lights can be moved, or more added,by replacing the existing light point with ajunction box and running cables in plastictrunking to the new light points or by using a lighting track.

• In kitchens, under-cupboard lighting can use existing sockets. If there is a shortage ofsockets, single sockets can be converted todouble sockets or double sockets to triplesockets.

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Paying for new lightingWhere costs are incurred in housing owned bylocal authorities or registered social landlordsthese may be met by the housing provider.

In other settings the cost of lighting installationscan be met, in part or in full (depending onindividual circumstances) through repairs grantsand Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs) or, inScotland, Disabled Adaptation Grants. Othergrant assistance and/or low- or no-interest loansmay also be available.

Some portable lighting may be available at low or no cost from local authority visionrehabilitation teams, OTs or Low Vision Services.Eligibility criteria will apply and IndividualBudgets may be available.

Local authority sensory impairmentteams working with lighting technicians

The Portsmouth visual impairment team workswith the Council’s own ‘Homecheck’ service to provide tailored lighting interventions andother adaptations for people with sight loss.The service operates across tenures for peopleaged over 60 or with disabilities. Charges,where applicable, are based on ability to pay.Low-interest loans are also available.

The Welsh Low Vision Service

This service uses a specialist low visionexamination by High Street opticians to giveeligible people free loans of vision aids andappliances, including portable task lamps.

Northern Ireland Eye Clinic Liaison Service

This service provides low vision aids (includingportable task lighting) at no cost, or a grant inlieu, for people who are registered or qualify forregistration as being blind or partially sighted.

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More details of all these items are given inAppendix 3. The Rica guide, ‘Choosing energysaving light bulbs for your home’ produced forPocklington in 2014 gives information on thedifferent types of bulbs available.

LampsA wide range of lamps (commonly called‘bulbs’) is available for use at home. TraditionalGLS tungsten filament lamps are no longergenerally available – they have been phased outas they are not energy-efficient.

There are three main types of energy savinglamps:

Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs)These are the most common energy savinglamps, which can take a short time to reach fulllight output after switch-on. Dimmable CFLlamps are available and are identifiable as suchfrom the packaging.

Halogen lampsThese are the cheapest energy saving lamps andgive very similar light to old-fashioned lamps.They are also the least energy efficient and theleast durable. They give full light output atswitch-on and are dimmable.

Light emitting diodes (LEDs)These are the most expensive energy savinglamps. They are also the most energy efficientand durable. A £25 LED light should pay foritself within five years. Developments in lightingusing LEDs are advancing rapidly and it is nowpossible to buy a range of lamps, including

dimmable LEDs, which are identifiable as suchfrom the packaging.

Traditional ‘linear’ fluorescent lamps, which areup to seven times more energy efficient and canlast up to eight times longer than traditionalGLS tungsten filament lamps, will continue tobe available.

LuminairesLuminaires (or ‘light fittings’) come in manydifferent forms.

General lighting luminaires are commonlyfixed to the ceiling or suspended from it. They may also be attached to walls or befreestanding, often in the form of uplights.

Task lighting can be provided by portable tasklamps or by fixed luminaires such as miniaturefluorescent luminaires over a worktop, fixedbehind a pelmet under a kitchen cupboard.Spotlights focused on a task area and fixed to aroom surface can also provide task lighting.

ControlsFor optimum control, each lighting elementshould be controlled separately. Control can beeither by switch or dimmer. The lighting canthen be adjusted to meet changing needsassociated with different activities. Some peoplewith sight loss find that their lighting needs varyfrom day to day. Controls can adjust the lightingappropriately. For some people, groupinglighting and controlling it from a single pointmay be more appropriate. Discussions with theuser will identify the best approach.

Automatic control of lighting is common foroutside security lighting which is activated bymovement (using passive infrared or PIRdetectors). The same kind of automation canprovide automatic lighting within the home. For example, a PIR or other sensor activated bygetting up at night can be used to switch on abedside lamp or lights on the route to thebathroom. This can be part of a wider telecareinstallation involving other sensors or devices.

Equipment – lamps, luminaires, controls 10

Mrs A is 85 years old and has mobilityproblems as well as sight loss caused bydiabetic retinopathy. She lives in a groundfloor apartment in Paisley linked to Renfrewshire’s telecare service. After a fall she returned home fromhospital with a package of support thatincluded a sensor that switches onbedside, hall and bathroom lights if shegets out of bed in the night and switchesthem off when she gets back into bed. Thelighting increases her safety at night andreduces the risk of another fall.

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Intelligent homes

A demonstrator house in West Bromwichincludes automated external lights at the main entrance door and pathway.

A key fob or use of a targeted SMS textmessage automatically opens the outsidegate and turns on a ‘runway’ of tungstenhalogen embedded lights. The entrancedoor is opened after a finger is swipedacross a finger-print reader. Inside thehouse, automated blinds support easiercontrol of light levels and glare.

Lighting at entrances is most important at nightto provide safe and navigable access whenleaving and returning. Appropriate, often highlevel, lighting is essential in the dark. Automatedlighting using PIR sensors is commonly used.

External lighting is needed on the approachto the building for:• Identifying the front door from a distance

• Safe transit from the road to the door

• Finding the lock and inserting the key.

Entrances

Halls and stairs12

Lighting at the head and foot of stairs and onlandings can reduce the risk of falls and trips.

Lighting must be positioned to improve contrastbetween stair treads and risers – a luminaire atthe top of the staircase will light the treads butthe risers will be in shadow. Lamps should beshaded to prevent glare as people move up ordown the stairs.

A luminaire on the ceiling just inside the frontdoor will illuminate the door, post box and,when the door has been opened, callers. In larger halls an additional luminaire furtheraway from the door will give even lighting.

To avoid shadows and problems adjusting todark or light areas, similar levels of light areneeded across the hall and the rooms and stairs opening from it.

As well as good ceiling lights,task lighting over a telephone

is important.

Living and dining areas

A mix of ambient and task lighting is essential to support normal activities.

General ambient lighting will typically beprovided by one or more luminaires suspendedfrom the ceiling. Diffusing shades shouldconceal any direct view of the lamp and reduce glare.

Depending on the room and on people’s needs,other fixed lighting options include: furtherceiling lighting, wall lighting, and lightingabove pictures. Additional general lighting canbe provided by free standing uplights, (seepicture on page 25) for example to light a darkcorner. Task lighting can also be provided byfreestanding floor or table lights.

Furniture layout will reflect activities in the room and will affect distribution of natural andartificial light and inform the need for tasklighting in different places. During daylight,furniture should be positioned to ensure thatnatural light shines over the shoulder ofsomebody with their back to the window, forexample to light the book they are reading.

As well as good ceiling lights,task lighting over an armchair is

important.

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In bathrooms and shower rooms, and any otherareas where moisture is likely, electrical fittingsneed to be protected from moisture. It isrecommended that lighting work in these areasbe carried out by a qualified and competentperson familiar with the relevant sections of theIET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) and fittingsmust conform to relevant safety standards.

Too often, inadequate levels of lighting anduneven distribution make personal care difficult.Lights over mirrors, shaver points, showers andbasins are important.

Bathrooms, showers and WCs14

Two fluorescent lights with circular diffuserson the ceiling of this bathroom ensure aneven level of light. A linear fluorescent lightabove the mirror illuminates the face andassists personal care. The dark shaver point and door frame contrast with the

light-coloured wall and there is good colourcontrast between the wall tiles and the basin.

Note also the contrasting blue strip downthe edge of the shower curtain making iteasier to see.

Kitchens and utility areas

Appropriate lighting can make it easier toprepare and cook food. Under-unit lightingabove working surfaces and placed behind apelmet at the front of the unit provides lightwithout glare where it is needed. Fixed orportable task lights can add extra light - such asover hobs or near washing machines and sinks.

Good general lighting can be achieved by linearfluorescent lamps that provide even levels oflight across the area and reduce the risk ofshadows.

Light for cooking

Cooking is a key part of everyday life. For ayoung man with congenital stationary night-blindness and the beginnings of a cataracton one eye, appropriate kitchen lighting wasachieved through:

• control of natural light to the kitchen by ahorizontal slatted blind

• six ceiling mounted mains voltage 50watttungsten halogen downlights with wide (36 degree) beams to provide generalroom lighting

• linear fluorescent lighting on ‘daisy chains’pointing down, mounted behind a pelmetunder the front of kitchen cupboards tolight work surfaces

• specialist lights over the hob to direct lightonto cooking.

White kitchen units contrast with dark workingsurfaces and floor. Their gloss finish would notsuit everyone with a visual impairment. ‘Bumpons’ on the microwave and washing machinecontrols are the only indication that thekitchen has been developed for someone withsight loss.

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Bedrooms16

All too often, task lighting is given inadequateattention in bedrooms. Bedside lamps should bepositioned so as to prevent glare when theoccupant is sitting or lying in bed. Task lightingthat illuminates dressing tables and chests ofdrawers and the interiors of wardrobes andcupboards is also valuable.

This bedroom was lit by a single pendantsuspended from the ceiling close to thewindow. This produced a very unevendistribution of light across the room andleft some areas, such as the ironing board,inadequately lit. The luminaire was clearglass allowing a direct view of the lampand causing glare.

The addition of the lighting track,powered from the existing wiring outleton the ceiling, enabled two pendants tobe suspended providing a more evendistribution of light throughout the room.Diffusing paper spheres prevented a directview of the lamps, even when lying in bedlooking upwards, eliminating glare. Thelighting track also enabled spot lights tobe fitted to provide higher levels of lighton specific tasks such as the ironing.

Publications and guidance

Goodman C (2008) “Housing for People withSight Loss: A Thomas Pocklington Trust DesignGuide”, EP 84. Bracknell, IHS BRE Press.

John J (2008) “Colour and Tonal Contrast: TheProcess from Guidance to Accessible Housing – A Supplement to ‘Housing Sight’”, RNIB Cymru.

Pollock R, McNair D, McGuire B andCunningham C (2008) “Designing Lighting forPeople with Dementia”, Dementia ServicesDevelopment Centre, University of Stirling.

Rees L and Lewis C (2003) “Housing Sight: AGuide to Building Accessible Homes for Peoplewith Sight Problems”, RNIB Cymru.

Thomas Pocklington Trust/RNIB (2009)“Improve the lighting in your home”.

BS:7671 “Requirements for ElectricalInstallation” (IEE Wiring Regulations 17thEdition) British Standards Institute.

Rica (2014) “Choosing energy saving light bulbsfor your home”

University of Stirling (2014) “Good practice inthe design of homes and living spaces for peoplewith dementia and sight loss”

Thomas Pocklington Trust (2014) “Housing forpeople with sight loss – a practical guide toimproving existing homes”, GPG 4 3rd edition.

Links

College of Occupational Therapistswww.cot.org.uk

Foundations, the national body for homeimprovement agencies www.foundations.uk.com

Housing Health and Safety Rating Systemwww.communities.gov.uk/housing/rentingandletting/housinghealth/

Lifetime Homeswww.lifetimehomes.org.uk

Lighting Association is a lighting manufacturers trade association www.lightingassociation.com

Social Care Association represents rehabilitation workerswww.socialcareassociation.co.uk

Society of Light and Lighting is part of theChartered Institution of Building ServicesEngineerswww.cibse.org

Telecare Services Associationwww.telecare.org.uk

Visibly Better schemewww.rnib.org.uk

Useful resources 17

Finding clothes

Wardrobe and cupboard lighting is asimple intervention that makes a bigdifference. In Pocklington housing, linear fluorescent lights are mountedbehind a pelmet at the front of cupboards and wardrobes.

The lights are controlled by a pneumatictimer switch (with benefits in reducingenergy consumption) or standard on/offswitches which are positioned outside the cupboard with an indicator light toshow when on. Automated switchescontrolled by the door closure are notused as these have been found to beunreliable over time.

BulbCorrectly termed a ‘lamp’, a bulb is a source ofoptical radiation (light). Lamps are replaceablecomponents that fit into luminaires (light fittings). Colour appearanceColour appearance is often characterised by colourtemperature. A 7,500 Kelvin colour temperaturewill appear bluish (described as ‘cold’). A 2,700Kelvin colour temperature will appear yellowish(and ‘warm’). Colour renderingColour rendering describes the effect of a lightsource on the colour appearance of objects ascompared with their appearance under an ideal ornatural light source. A colour rendering index (CRI)between 80 and 100 reveals colours well.Control gearControl gear regulates the electrical current and,therefore, the running (and in some cases starting)of a lamp. The way this regulation takes placevaries for different kinds of lamp. Disabled Facilities GrantDisabled Facilities Grants (DFGs) are provided inEngland, Wales and Northern Ireland towards thecost of home adaptations that are ‘reasonable andpractical’ to enable beneficiaries to liveindependently. GlareGlare arises from sensitivity to light. When parts ofthe visual scene are much brighter than theremainder, such as a direct view of a bright lamp,‘discomfort’ glare can occur without impairingvision. ‘Disability’ glare arises from light sourcespointing towards the eye, reducing contrast andimpairing vision.

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Home Improvement Agency (HIA)Home improvement agencies (often referred to as‘care and repair’ or ‘staying put’ agencies)undertake, with the aid of grants and subsidies,improvement, repair and adaptation work forolder and disabled people. IlluminanceThe illuminance on a surface is the density of lightfalling on it (see Lux).Kelvin See ‘colour appearance’ above.LampA lamp is a source of optical radiation (light).Lamps are replaceable components that fit intoluminaires (light fittings). The term bulb is oftenused instead of lamp.Lifetime HomesLifetime Homes are designed to facilitateaccessibility, usability and visitability by a widerange of people with disabilities. Key aspects areembodied within building regulations. Light (illuminance) meterLight meters, more correctly called illuminancemeters, are used to measure the amount of lightfalling onto a given plane.LumensThe lumen is a standardised unit of measurementof the total amount of visible light that isproduced by a light source, such as a bulb or atube. LuminaireA luminaire is the apparatus containing the lightsource. It connects the light source to theelectricity supply, controls the distribution of lightand protects it from damage.

LuxLux is the unit of illuminance (the density of lightfalling on a surface). A person with sight loss mayneed up to 1000 lux to undertake some tasks inthe home. PIR (passive infrared sensor)PIRs are commonly used for security systems. They measure infrared light that radiates fromobjects. Changes in such light are caused bymovement, the detection of which can be used to activate other devices. Task lightingTask lamps give light to a specific and nearby area.The user can often control the light by switching,dimming or positioning the source. Lamps aretypically tungsten halogen or compact fluorescent. TelecareTelecare describes any support service delivereddirectly to a user in his/her home that is supportedby information and communication technology. It includes telehealth. Universal designUniversal designs in products, services or the built environment, are those which maximiseaccessibility and usability for people of differentstature, physical and sensory impairments. UplightUplights (also called uplighters) are luminaireswhere the light distribution is predominantlyupward. They can be suspended below the ceiling,wall mounted or freestanding, and require a clean,white ceiling for efficient operation.

Glossary of lighting terms

19Checklist: Occupant lighting needs Appendix 1

This checklist is based on the sevencharacteristics of good lighting, listed on page six. It can be applied to each spacewithin the home and finally to the homeoverall. If the answer to any of these questionsis ‘No’ then action should be considered.

1. Appropriate

• Does the lighting enable the occupant tomove comfortably around the space?

• Does the lighting enable the occupant tocarry out their activities comfortably?

2. Sufficient

• Is the space light and bright?

• Is there enough light on tasks?

• Is there enough light to move around?

3. Even

• Is the lighting even, avoiding shadows andsharp changes in light level?

• Are lamps concealed from direct view,minimising glare?

4. Adjustable

• Is each element of the lighting separatelyswitched or dimmed?

• Are there appropriate window blinds orcurtains?

5. Energy efficient

• Is daylight used whenever possible?

• Are energy efficient lamps used?

6. Simple

• Are any proposed changes to the lightingdesigned to avoid disruption?

• Is existing wiring and equipment being usedwherever possible?

7. Adaptable

• Is any new lighting adaptable to futurechanges in need?

• Would the lighting be suitable for otherfuture occupants with minimum alterations?

Checklist: Assessments of existing lighting 20

Y NY N

At the beginning of this report, sevencharacteristics were highlighted for determininglighting options for people with sight loss. Theserelated to their appropriateness, sufficiency,evenness, adjustability, energy efficiency,simplicity and future adaptability. Each of theseven points requires consideration for eachproposed lighting intervention. All seven shouldnormally be satisfied.

A prelude to considering the sevencharacteristics is understanding the range ofpotential lighting interventions that could meetthe needs of the person with sight loss. Theoptions will relate to their daily living needs andtheir normal or desired range of family, social,leisure and work activities.

It is logical to start by setting out the options inrelation to the person’s needs. A checklist isoffered below to facilitate this. Then for eachpotential option and for the proposed lightinginterventions as a whole, the seven pointsshould be considered – with options beingreaffirmed or adjusted as appropriate. Use of the checklist presupposes the prior informedconsent of the person with sight loss or, whereappropriate, their carer.

The checklist is designed for copying and use in the field. Additional information (e.g. in theform of a cover page) will also need to begathered on the person and the homeconcerned.

Appendix 2

Y N

Y N

Y N

Y N

3. Hearing lossDoes the person also have hearing loss?

Options:

• Increase light levels at appropriate locations(including at the front door) to facilitatecommunication through lip-reading orsigning.

• Position chairs in good light.

4. Getting around the house Does the person have difficulty gettingaround the house?

Options:

• Improve ability to identify landmarks andswitches by enhancing colour contrasts(using paint, cushions and throws, etc.).

• Reduce visual clutter.

• Replace patterned carpets and furnishingswith plain contrasting colours.

• Minimise differences in light levels betweenrooms.

• Consider automated lighting for frequentroutes.

Are there risks of falls, slips, bumps or trips in the house?

Options:

• Remove trip hazards (such as loose rugs).

• Increase lighting levels and reduce glare inareas of high risk such as steps, stairs andbetween rooms.

• Increase general lighting levels in all rooms.

1. ActivitiesDoes sight loss mean the person has difficultyundertaking some tasks in their home?

Options:

• Window cleaning, curtain tie-backs, longercurtain rails to move curtains clear ofwindows, removal of net curtains, cuttingback foliage outside windows.

• Use of fixed task lights at key locationsand/or portable task lights where tasks areundertaken (or where the person with sightloss wishes to undertake them).

• Increase the number of light sources. Ensure their location does not create glare.

Does the person have difficulty reading, e.g. letters and bills?

Options:

• Make sure person has appropriate spectaclesand simple vision aids (including magnifiers).

• Consider use of technologies such as screenreaders and computers.

2. GlareDoes the person experience discomfort with glare?

Options:

• Use diffusing (e.g. paper) shades or covers (forstrip lights) to reduce glare and diffuse light.

• Re-arrange furnishings and/or luminaires toavoid bright light shining directly into the eyes.

• Increase control of light through dimmerswitches and adjustable window blinds.

21

Y N

Y N

Y N

Y N

• Consider automated lighting when getting out of bed.

• Relocate switches.

• Provide two-way light switches at keylocations.

5. DressingDoes the person have difficulty finding /matching clothes?

Options:

• Provide better lighting in bedroom throughadditional light fittings.

• Provide lighting in wardrobes and clothescupboards.

• Provide lighting above dressing tables.

6. Personal CareDoes the person have difficulty washing,shaving or putting on make-up?

Options:

• Increase lighting levels in bath or showerroom.

• Provide lighting above mirrors and shaverpoints.

• Improve lighting above and around wash handbasins and showers.

7. Cooking and EatingDoes the person have difficulty cooking,preparing or eating food?

Options:

• Increase lighting levels in kitchen and overdining / eating area.

• Provide under-unit lighting to illuminateworktops.

• Increase colour contrasts in food preparationand eating areas including plates, cutlery andkitchen appliances.

• Reduce glare through shading lights andavoiding gloss finishes.

8. Entering the HomeDoes the person have difficulty seeing theirway to and through their entry door?

Options:

• Provide better outdoor lighting.

• Consider PIR-activated lights by doors andabove locks.

• Clearly mark the path to entry door usinglights, scented plants, textured surfaces.

• Make numbers, locks and other doorfurniture clear by using colour contrasts andtactile clues.

Y N

Y N

Y N

Y N

Y N

Y N

Y N

9. Key Overall Points:

Will the lighting enable the occupant to move comfortably around the space/do the task? [Appropriate]

Will the lighting be sufficient for theactivity/task and enable the person to move around? [Sufficient]

Will the lighting be even, avoiding shadows and sharp changes? Will lamps be hidden from direct view? [Even]

Will the lighting be separately switched or dimmed? Will there beappropriate window blinds and curtains? [Adjustable]

Will daylight be used whenever possible? Will energy efficient lamps be used? [Energy Efficient]

Will the lighting changes be done with minimal disruption? Can existing wiring and equipment be used? [Simple]

Will new lighting be adaptable to future changes in need? Would it be suitable for future occupants? [Future Adaptable]

Download this checklist from the Pocklingtonwebsite at: www.pocklington-trust.org.uk

Lights and lighting factsheet22 Appendix 3

1. Types of lamps and their uses The key properties of different types of lamps(bulbs) and luminaires (light fittings) that are oftenused in domestic settings are summarised below.

Tungsten General Lighting Service (GLS) Lamps GLS lamps use a lot of electricity to generaterelatively little light and they have short lives. Forthis reason they have been mostly phased out.

Tungsten Halogen (TH) LampsTungsten Halogen lamps operate on the sameprinciple as GLS lamps but the filaments reach ahigher temperature. They tend to be brighter,smaller and more efficient, and come in a widevariety of shapes and sizes. Wattages range from10w to 500w. The quality of light from TH lampsis similar to that of GLS, but they tend to appearslightly cooler in colour.

Some TH lamps connect directly to a mainselectricity supply; most low wattage lamps (50wand below) run off 12v and use a transformer.

There are some TH lamps which have beendesigned to replace GLS lamps. The lamps areabout 30% more efficient than GLS, and whilstthey are not as energy efficient as CFL lamps (see table), they have the advantages of givingtheir full light output instantly and beingdimmable. The mains voltage type TH lamps areexpected to be phased out from autumn 2016.

Linear and Compact FluorescentLampsFluorescent lamps are over seven times asefficient in energy use as GLS. Good linearfluorescent lamps offer excellent colourrendering and it is possible for the colourappearance to range from a warm yellow light(close to that of a GLS lamp) to cooler colourssimilar to that of a northern sky. For domesticuse it is common to use fluorescent lamps withwarm colours because these match best totungsten lamps and provide a cosy atmosphere.

Linear fluorescent lamps are available in a rangeof lengths, diameters and powers. The mostpopular diameters are T4 (12.5mm), T5(16mm) and T8 (25mm). T4 lamps are oftenused as under-cupboard lights. The larger T5and T8 lamps are used for general lighting. The length of the lamps ranges from 0.22m upto 1.8m, and their wattage from 10w to 80w.

TH lamps come in a range of shapes and sizes

Almost all modern fluorescent lamps useelectronic control gear that gives an instant start and no flicker. They have a very long lifebut the light output tends to fall over time. To ensure appropriate lighting levels the lampmay need to be replaced before it fails.

LEDsLight emitting diodes (LEDs) are semi-conducting materials that emit light whencurrent flows through them. LED lamps areincreasingly available in a range of shapes, sizesand fittings to replace traditional lamps. As withCFLs, they will not necessarily work with adimmer switch and if compatibility withdimmers is required, then this will be indicatedon the packaging. There are some downsides toLEDs, notably the high initial cost and possiblepoor colour rendering.

g

g

Light and brightness – lumens arehere to stay

Most people are used to choosing a lampby its wattage, but wattage is a measureof the power consumption of the lampand is not a good measure of brightness.The measure of how much light is givenout by a lamp is given in lumens (lm) andall packaging should now give brightnessin lumens. Many manufacturers also give a‘watts equivalent’ figure on theirpackaging to indicate the brightness level.

23

Colour appearance of all lamp types

Northlight 6,000-6,500 Kelvin

Cool White 4,000 Kelvin

Intermediate White 3,500 Kelvin

Warm White 3,000 Kelvin

Very Warm 2,700 Kelvin

Compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) work in thesame way as linear fluorescent lamps, but thetube is folded. This means that CFLs are smallerthan their linear equivalents. CFLs have shorterlives and take longer to reach their fullbrightness. Some have a pin base and requireseparate control gear (like a linear fluorescentlamp). Others have integral gear and the samebase (bayonet or edison screw) as a GLS lamp,offering an energy saving alternative. Thedisadvantage for many people with sight loss isthat these lamps can take several seconds (up to30) to reach full brightness.

The table below summarises the performance of the various lamps.

Lamp Energy Useful life Light Colour Start-up Commentstype efficiency (hours) depreciation rendering time

Tungsten Poor 2,000+ Fails before Excellent Instant At powerHalogen critical below 75w(Th) reduction low voltage

versions perform better

Linear Very Good 16,000 10% loss Good Few LampsFluorescent at 16,000 seconds perform less

hours well with old style control gear

Compact Good 12,000+ Poor output Good Up to 1 Vast range Fluorescent after 12,000 minute of lamps of(separate hours differentgear) quality so

hard to generalise

Compact Fair 8,000 Poor output Good Up to 2Fluorescent after 8,000 minutes(integral hoursgear)

Light Very Good 20,000 Output may Good InstantEmitting not drop (in betterDiode noticeably quality(LED) during useful lamps)

life

g

gg

24

2. Types of luminaires (light fittings) and their usesThe range of luminaires is vast. Three types are frequently used in the home: task lighting,general or ambient lighting and under/in-cupboard lighting. Those suitable for use willcarry a CE marking (reflecting conformity withEuropean standards).

Task lighting Task lighting comes in a multitude of sizes andtypes. A range of fittings and lamps (bulbs) cansupport different types of illumination to suitdifferent eye conditions and preferences.

Fixed task lighting includes wall, ceiling,cupboard or under-unit lighting that ispositioned to target light on an activity. Fittings should be positioned to target a taskand avoid glare.

Portable task lighting can be mains or batterypowered. They can be used flexibly, with theirdirection and position being adjustable, can betried out with minimum disruption and areoften cheaper than fixed lighting.

A GLS lamp clampedto furniture.

A CFL with separatecontrol gear and a

heavy base.

A folding portable light withrechargeable battery.

Key questions to ask when selecting portabletask lighting are:

• Is it easy to adjust the fitting to direct lightwhere it is needed?

• Is the on/off switch easy to find and use?

• Does the fitting remain cool when in use?

• Is the stand firm and stable?

• Does the lamp offer appropriate light? (see descriptions above)

• Does it offer added features that are useful?

Some portable task lighting uses rechargeablebatteries. The light these give is limited by thepower of their battery and it is important toknow whether the charger is easy to use.

Lights and lighting factsheet

25

General lightingThe images below are examples of generalluminaires that can provide ambient lighting.

This luminaire holds a linearfluorescent lamp. It is idealwhere a lot of light is needed

along the length of the fitting and will helpensure that no hard shadows are cast. It canappear institutional.

These luminaires are tungstenhalogen (TH) spotlightsrecessed into a ceiling. These

are very good at lighting particular surfaces butrequire careful ‘aiming’ to ensure that the lightis effective and does not cause glare. This typeof luminaire has two main problems: their use ofreflector lamps means that care is needed to usean appropriate beam width (a narrow beam canresult in pools of light and dark areas left unlit)and fixing them often requires holes to be cutthrough the ceiling, in which case it isimportant to use a luminaire that constitutes a fire barrier or fit a fire-resistant hood.

Circular or square luminaires containingfluorescent lamps, such as the one in the picture on the right, are useful for halls andbathrooms. Luminaires installed in bathrooms orother areas where moisture is present must haveappropriate seals to prevent moisture enteringthe luminaire.

This luminaire holds a circularfluorescent lamp. It is almost asefficient and effective as a linear

luminaire and lamp and may be regarded asmore appropriate for domestic use.

This luminaire offers anotherapproach to achieving high levelsof lighting without hard shadows.

It combines several lamps (either GLS, TH orCFL) in one fitting and is designed to throwlight upwards so that it is reflected from theceiling and gives an even spread through theroom. A further benefit of this type of luminaireis that changes can normally be made toshades. Large shades help spread light over awider area, and reduce brightness and glare.

General lighting can also be provided by freestanding luminaires suchas the uplight shown herelighting a dark corner.This luminaire also has aseparately controlled tasklight attached providingadditional lighting on the table.

26

Under/in-cupboard lighting This lighting must be suitable for the situation –such as for mounting on wooden surfaces.Lamps must not get hot even in the event of anelectrical fault within the luminaire. Such fittingsare generally marked with a special symbol,shown below.

Options include miniature fluorescent luminaireson battens with a shade to diffuse light,miniature enclosed tungsten halogen luminairesand luminaires containing light emitting diodes(LEDs).

F

Cupboard lighting comes in arange of shapes and sizes.

Many factors influence the choice of fitting,and key questions to ask are:

• Will the fitting suit the location?

• Is the fitting safe for the surface finish?

• Is switching easy and safe (including turninglights off)?

• Will lamps and luminaires remain cool in use?

• Is glare prevented?

• Does the lamp offer appropriate light?

In general, miniature fluorescent luminaires onbattens are the best source of light: they areefficient and cool, and their slim size means theycan be fitted under cupboards without takingup too much space.

Lighting in very restricted areas may also beprovided by small, battery powered, stick-onLED luminaires. These have the advantage thatthey do not need to be wired in and do not get hot. The battery life may be 100 hours andit is important that they are turned off when not in use. Some incorporate PIR motion sensorsand turn on and off automatically. These arealso useful as markers for wayfinding, forexample during the night.

Lights and lighting factsheet

Control of lighting and lighting levels The selection of appropriate luminaires andlamps is one part of the visual environment;lighting controls and levels are another.Together these should create a good visualenvironment. This should:

– Be glare-free– Offer even lighting levels – Enable the user to control the lighting easily.

In this context, and bearing in mind the needsof other household members, flexibility inlighting is important and can be achieved bymaking the position of the light source variable(e.g. through the use of directional or portabletask lamps) or through switching and dimmingarrangements.

Making light switches as conspicuous as possibleis useful. There is a wide range of switch coverplates and surrounds that can enhance visibility.

Dimmer switches are most often used withtungsten GLS or tungsten halogen lamps. Mostlinear fluorescent lamps and CFLs which do nothave integrated gear will only dim if they arefitted with dimming control gear and there is aseparate electrical input to control output of thelamp. This usually means extra wiring runningfrom the switch to the light fitting. Some CFLswith integral gear will run with dimmerswitches.

27

The tables opposite offer guidelines for lightinglevels for different tasks and rooms (and amaximum level of difference within or betweenrooms). These offer a starting point to considerhow much illuminance is needed but, becausepeople’s needs are varied, should be treatedwith caution and with attention to thepositioning of lamps.

Selecting and using a light meter At least a Type F (field) meter (as defined inBritish Standard BS 667:2005) is necessary togive the required level of reliability. A meter witha range from 0 to 1,000 lux is adequate. Theseare available with manual or (more costly) autorange changes and with a remote or built-inlight detecting cell. A cell remote from the mainmeter body means that the meter can be readwith less risk of it being affected by any shadow.

In using a meter, care is needed to ensure thatthe reading taken is representative of the actualconditions. When measuring electric lightinglevels, daylight should be excluded and lampsallowed to run up to their full level ofbrightness. Task lighting measurements shouldbe made at the position of the task and in thesame plane, e.g. horizontal, vertical, etc.

Over time, the sensitivity of meters can drift andregular checks need to be made to ensurecorrect calibration.

Suggested illuminances (LUX) appropriate for tasksTask definition Examples of activity Suggested LUX

Routine Showering/bathing 100 – 300Brushing teeth 200 – 300Washing (in bathroom) 100 – 300Finding keys 100 – 300

Time consuming Reading/writing 200 – 1000Washing up 200 – 500Having a meal 200 – 500

Short detailed Selecting clothes (wardrobe/drawer) 100 – 200Using the telephone 100 – 400Putting on shoes 100 – 300

Requiring concentration Making a cup of tea 200 – 1000and with risk Cooking in the kitchen 200 – 1000

Shaving 200 – 1000

Suggested illuminances (LUX) on the floors of each roomRooms in the home Suggested LUX

Hallway 100 – 300Lounge 100 – 300Kitchen 200 – 300Bathroom 100 – 300Bedroom 100 – 300Stairs (on treads) 100 – 200

Suggested illuminance (LUX)differences between rooms

The lighting level in a room should not be morethan twice the level in an adjoining room.

Illuminance levels are measured using a light(illuminance) meter. g

g

Pier House 90 Strand on the Green London W4 3NN Tel 020 8995 0880

Email info@pocklington-trust.org.ukWebsite www.pocklington-trust.org.ukRegistered Charity No. 1113729Company Registered No. 5359336

Published by Thomas Pocklington Trust

9 781906 464714

ISBN 978-1-906464-71-4