All you need to know about glare light pollution and how to prevent it
Lighting is perhaps one of the most significant elements of interior design. It has become a daily necessity to illuminate the night sky.
Since its introduction in 1879, lighting has evolved to satisfy human needs. It contributes to living productive lives, shaping our mood, creating atmosphere, effects, emotions, etc. Today, we cannot imagine our lives in the darkness. So, the benefits of indoor and outdoor lighting solutions are limitless.
However, like a coin has two sides, lighting also has its boon and bane. Exposure to excessive lights can cause side effects such as glare light pollution.
What is a Glare?
It is a health condition where a visual sensation is caused due to exposure to uncontrolled illumination. It is produced by the high brightness in the visual field grander to which our eyes can handle. The sensitivity of glare can vary widely but, old people are generally more sensitive to glare due to the ageing characteristics of their eyes.
Forms of Glare
There are two forms of glare, which are:
Disability glare
It is the reduction in visibility occurred by intense light exposures in the field of view. It works by a loss of visibility from stray light being scattered within the optical system of the eyes. As a result, the veil is drawn over the retina and reduces apparent contrast in the visual scene to impair visibility.
Discomfort glare
It is also known as psychological glare is a sensation of annoyance or discomfort of induced pain by excessive brightness. The main parameters of discomfort glare are the size of the glare, its position, background and source.
Glare light pollution
Glare depending upon the intensity can lead to light pollution altering the colour and contrast of the nighttime sky. It can also contribute to hampering the circadian rhythm of human beings. Along with these, there are some other side effects of glare light pollution, which may include:
Environmental
According to the International Dark-sky Association, 12 million tonnes of carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere due to the use of artificial lighting. This much CO2 emission is enough to cause global warming and pollution.
Humans
Melatonin, a sleep hormone, is influenced by lighting pollution. This hormone activates in darkness, thus light brightness only reduces the hormonal deficiency and leads to sleeping disorders.
How to prevent or reduce glare light pollution in everyday lives?
By following the below-mentioned points, one can easily save the environment and yourself from the harmful effects of glare lighting.
Consider wearing a polarized lens.
Integrate anti-glare coatings in the spaces whether for office LED lighting or for home lighting and fixtures.
Keep adjusting the light levels as per the necessities.
Make sure the surfaces are not shiny to reflect more light and cause indirect glare.
Use automatic brightness in electronic devices.
Diffuse light with lampshades and use curtains on windows to curb glare.
Get the lighting in commercial spaces designed by proficient lighting designers and consultants to eliminate unwanted glare by using the right products.
Takeaway
Lighting is no doubt an integral part of our improved lives. However, we must learn how to use modern LED lighting efficiently to attain the maximum benefits and reduce negative effects. Furthermore, while choosing a lighting system, it is better to opt for branded and trusted products like Wipro LED lighting. Architects claim that product quality and effectiveness also play a major part in maintaining overall health and atmosphere.
