Office lighting: when visual comfort becomes a competitive advantage
The relationship between lighting quality and work performance is documented and measurable. Ergonomic studies show that correctly calibrated lighting, compliant with the EN 12464-1 standard, significantly reduces visual fatigue and improves concentration on repetitive or cognitively demanding tasks. In a context where companies seek to attract and retain talent, the work environment — and lighting in particular — has become a criterion that candidates factor into their decisions.
At Rodalight, we approach office lighting as an investment in human capital, not as a cost line to be minimised.
What EN 12464-1 requires for offices
| Space type | Average illuminance | Max UGR | Min CRI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen-based workstation | 500 lux | 19 | 80 |
| Meeting room | 500 lux | 19 | 80 |
| Reception / front of house | 300 lux | 22 | 80 |
| Filing / storage | 200 lux | 25 | 60 |
| Corridors / circulation | 100 lux | 28 | 40 |
The specific challenges of open-plan office lighting
Open-plan offices are the most demanding spaces to light correctly. Workstations are oriented differently, screens face varying angles, and natural light varies depending on proximity to the windows. Homogeneous, controlled lighting is the only serious response to this complexity.
- Screen anti-glare : Low-luminance fittings (UGR < 19) prevent unwanted reflections on monitors — the primary cause of visual fatigue in office environments.
- Lighting uniformity : A uniformity ratio above 0.6 between the most and least illuminated zones guarantees consistent visual comfort for all staff, regardless of their position in the room.
- Daylight management : An automatic regulation system adjusts artificial lighting according to solar input, maintaining a constant level throughout the day without manual intervention.
- Human Centric Lighting : Dynamic lighting systems that evolve colour temperature according to the time of day — cooler in the morning to stimulate, warmer in the evening to support the transition to wind-down — show measurable results on team alertness and wellbeing.
Technical solutions for offices
- LED panels UGR < 19 : The reference solution for open-plan offices, available in different colour temperatures and compatible with dimming systems.
- Indirect/direct pendant fittings : For executive spaces and premium environments, they combine soft indirect ceiling lighting with functional direct lighting on work surfaces.
- DALI systems with presence detection : Automatic switch-off in unoccupied spaces, dimming according to natural light, programmable scenes for meeting rooms and shared spaces.
- Reception and front-of-house lighting : A carefully considered first visual impression immediately reinforces the professional image of the company with visitors and new employees.
Renovation in occupied premises: our expertise
The majority of office lighting renovation projects take place in occupied buildings. Teams continue to work during the works, which requires rigorous phasing and precise coordination with other trades.
Rodalight has developed a methodology for intervening in occupied offices that minimises disruption while guaranteeing the quality of the final result. Each phase is planned in consultation with the client, and the most impactful interventions are scheduled outside office hours.
Maintenance and durability
- Long-life LED sources (50,000 h+) to eliminate source replacements and disruptive maintenance interventions.
- DALI systems with consumption reporting for companies subject to CSR reporting obligations or energy audits.
- Personalised study including photometric simulation and complete technical documentation to facilitate future changes.
For a turnkey project, Rodalight offers the personalised visual study and Express Advice, tailored to the specific requirements of your offices.
Conclusion
Well-designed office lighting is an investment in the performance, wellbeing and image of your company. It reduces your teams' fatigue, lowers your energy bill and strengthens your employer attractiveness. With Rodalight, benefit from nearly 50 years of Belgian technical expertise, mastery of applicable standards and rigorous support from design to handover. Discover also our solutions for meeting rooms and coworking spaces to complete your approach to professional lighting.









