Health and Safety in Lighting Design
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Immersive Theatre Lighting Design course at Stanmore School of Business. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Accident #
An unplanned, unwanted event that results in injury or damage. In health and safety terminology, accidents are often distinguished from incidents, which may not result in harm but indicate a potential for harm.
Emergency lighting #
A lighting system designed to provide illumination during an emergency situation, such as a power outage. Emergency lighting is typically required to operate for a minimum of 30 minutes and is activated automatically when a building's main power supply is cut off.
Ergonomics #
The study of how equipment and working environments can be designed to fit the people who use them, with the aim of preventing injury and improving productivity. In lighting design, ergonomics may involve considering the effects of light on the human body, such as the impact of glare on the eyes.
Glare #
The sensation of discomfort or disability caused by excessive brightness in the visual field. Glare can be caused by direct or reflected light and can reduce visibility, leading to an increased risk of accidents.
Hazard #
A situation or thing that has the potential to cause harm. In health and safety terminology, hazards are often classified as either physical, such as moving machinery or sharp objects, or chemical, such as toxic substances or fumes.
Incident #
An event that has the potential to cause harm but does not result in injury or damage. Incidents can serve as a warning of potential hazards and may indicate a need for corrective action.
Illuminance #
The amount of light falling on a surface, typically measured in lux (lx). Illuminance is an important consideration in lighting design, as insufficient illuminance can lead to reduced visibility and an increased risk of accidents.
Luminance #
The amount of light emitted by a surface, typically measured in candela per square meter (cd/m2). Luminance is an important consideration in lighting design, as high luminance can cause glare and reduce visibility.
Lux #
The unit of measurement for illuminance, equal to one lumen per square meter (lm/m2).
Risk assessment #
The process of identifying and evaluating the potential risks associated with a particular activity or situation. In health and safety terminology, risk assessments are an important tool for identifying and mitigating potential hazards.
Safety culture #
The attitudes, values, and practices that influence an organization's approach to health and safety. A strong safety culture is characterized by a commitment to protecting the health and well-being of employees and others who may be affected by the organization's activities.
Task lighting #
A type of lighting designed to provide illumination for specific tasks, such as reading or writing. Task lighting is typically more intense than general lighting and is focused on the area where the task is being performed.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation #
Invisible radiation with wavelengths shorter than those of visible light. UV radiation can cause skin damage and eye irritation and is produced by some types of lighting, including some types of halogen and fluorescent lamps.
Visible light #
The portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that is visible to the human eye, typically with wavelengths between 400 and 700 nanometers. Visible light is used for illumination in most lighting applications.
Workplace health and safety #
The practices and procedures used to protect the health and safety of employees in the workplace. Workplace health and safety may involve measures such as providing proper training, equipment, and protective gear, as well as implementing policies and procedures to minimize the risk of injury or illness.