Measuring lighting in the workplace is a legal obligation for employers and at the same time one of the most overlooked health and safety requirements. Poor lighting is not just a matter of comfort. It causes eye strain, reduces concentration and directly increases the risk of workplace injuries.
What workplace lighting measurement is and what it assesses
Lighting measurement is the professional assessment of lighting conditions in the working environment using a calibrated lux meter. The result is a report with the measured values, which are compared with the requirements of the applicable standards.
Several parameters are assessed. The basic one is illuminance, expressed in lux (lx). Lux is the unit of illuminance – it indicates how much light falls on an area of one square metre. Besides illuminance, the uniformity of lighting is measured. Glare is also assessed – it occurs when the contrast between light and dark areas is too great. Another parameter is colour rendering, i.e. the ability of a light source to show the colours of objects faithfully.
Each of these parameters has a direct impact on how an employee perceives their working environment and how long they can work with concentration without signs of fatigue.
Summary: lighting measurement is not just about whether there is light in the workplace. It is a comprehensive assessment of the lighting conditions that affect employees’ health, safety and performance.
When lighting measurement is mandatory
In the Czech Republic, workplace lighting measurement is mandatory whenever it is required by the categorisation of work. Work classified in category 2 or higher in terms of physical factors of risk is subject to regular measurement. In addition, lighting must be measured when a new workplace is put into operation, after a renovation or a change in the layout of the workplace, after replacing or adding luminaires, when there is a suspicion that the lighting does not meet the standard, and whenever occupational health care requires it.
Even workplaces that are not subject to mandatory measurement should not underestimate lighting. The employer is responsible for safe working conditions in general, and inadequate lighting is a factor that the labour inspectorate assesses during inspections.
Summary: the obligation to measure lighting stems not only from the law, but also from the employer’s general responsibility for a safe working environment.
The impact of insufficient lighting on employees’ health
Insufficient lighting in the workplace is not just a nuisance. It is a risk factor with documented health consequences. Employees who work in unsuitable light for long periods suffer from increased eye strain, headaches, reduced concentration and more errors.
A direct consequence of poor lighting is also a higher number of workplace injuries. An employee who cannot see the work surface, tools or floor markings properly makes mistakes and can get hurt. In areas with machinery or at height, this can have serious consequences.
Long-term exposure to unsuitable lighting contributes to the development of occupational eye conditions. These conditions are part of work categorisation, and their development can lead to recognition of an occupational disease, which brings not only human but also financial and legal consequences for the employer.
Recommendation: if employees repeatedly report headaches or eye strain, take it as a signal to check the lighting conditions. Waiting for an injury or an occupational disease is always more expensive than prevention.
How professional lighting measurement works
Professional lighting measurement is carried out by a specialist company in cooperation with an accredited laboratory. At Rescue Group, for lighting measurements we work with renowned accredited laboratories whose results meet strict standards and are fully accepted by inspection authorities and occupational health services.
The measurement itself takes place directly in the workplace during normal operation or under conditions corresponding to a standard work shift. The technician measures the illuminance on the work surface at a grid of predefined points, records the results and compares them with the requirements of the standard.
- The result of the measurement is a report with the measured values compared with the normative requirements
- The report contains a conclusion on whether or not the lighting is compliant
- If the result is non-compliant, the technician recommends specific measures
Summary: a professional lighting measurement usually takes just a few hours, and the output is a specific report that tells you whether the workplace meets the standard and, if not, what needs to change.
How we can help with lighting measurement in your company
At Rescue Group we provide lighting measurement both as a stand-alone service and as part of comprehensive health and safety packages. We do not limit ourselves to carrying out the measurement. We will help you understand the results, propose suitable measures and make sure that the whole occupational safety agenda in your company works effectively and without unnecessary administrative burden.
We work with accredited laboratories and provide services individually as needed as well as in long-term cooperation. Whether you need a one-off measurement before an inspection or a regular service in line with your work categorisation, we will advise and help you.
Frequently asked questions
How often must workplace lighting be measured?
The frequency depends on the work category and changes in the workplace. We recommend a review at least once every two years, or immediately after a change in lighting.
What is the minimum lighting level for an office workstation?
For normal office work, the standard requires at least 500 lux on the work surface. This value must be verified by a professional measurement.
What happens if the lighting does not meet the standard?
The employer is obliged to put it right. During an inspection you face a fine and, in the event of an injury, liability for damages.
Who is allowed to measure workplace lighting?
The measurement must be carried out by a competent person or a company with an accredited laboratory. A do-it-yourself measurement has no legal validity.
Can lighting measurement be combined with other health and safety measurements?
Yes. Measuring several factors in one visit saves time and money and gives a comprehensive overview of the risks.
Keep your workplace safe with our professional services.
