. Over the last few years there has been an increase in research into the effects of lighting not only on us as humans but also into the environment.

It has now been proven that different temperatures of light have different benefits and many studies have proven cooler/whiter light temperature can increase concentration and help reduce the strain put on our eyes.

How is light measured? Light is measured in ‘Kelvins’ commonly known by a simple K and range from around 1000k to 7000k. The lower on the scale the Kelvins are the more orange the light is, these are known as warm lights, whereas the other end of the spectrum gives of cooler light with a lot of bluer undertones. The most common cooler light is used within schools and offices range from 4000k-6500k, this colour range is described as daylight and cool white, which provide them the most natural colouring to a room.

Currently we see the majority of schools, hospitals and office blocks still supporting the old fluorescent tubes, we tend to see this due to the lack of education on how bad they are and simply because many people believe they don’t need to replace something that is not broken. Unfortunately, this is not always the best way to look at it, as Fluorescent lighting fixtures contain combinations of Mercury, Argon, Xenon, Neon and Krypton.

One of the many hazards that come from Mercury within the fluorescent lamps is its production of high UV light. UV radiation can cause damage to plastics around it as well as the tissues in our eyes and skin. Not only do they emit harmful UV rays, but it is not uncommon for fluorescent lamps to flicker and cause glare on computer screens and interactive whiteboards. This flicker can also negatively impact not only the students but the teachers and other staff as well. Constant flickering will cause eye strain and glare will cause squinting.

Glare can cause two different types of problems discomfort and disability glare.

• Discomfort Glare – Is the annoying sensation or pain caused by a large amount of glare.
• Disability Glare – Is caused by light being scattered in the eye, which then reduces luminance contrast of the retinal image.

LED lamps do not flicker at all, they turn on at full brightness and do not flicker when dimmed.  This makes them a great alternative for special education schools. The colour is more of a natural light for LEDs and has also been proven to improve the behaviour of students who are hyperactive. The cool light helps all children focus and concentrate.

In offices LED lighting does not cause glare on computer screens like fluorescent does, creating a much more comfortable environment for staff to work in.  Headaches will decrease massively, and staff will be able to be more productive throughout their day. The cool light of the lamps also helps staff to be more alert from the offset resulting in a more productive work load.

LED lighting is a must and will also save you massive amounts on your electricity cost.