Look at the service station pictured below on the right after it reduced its light output and installed recessed lights as part of an experiment. The original unshielded drop down canopy lights produced excessive glare as seen below on the left. The recessed / shielded lights on the right produce a more even distribution of light where it is needed, allowing you to see more clearly in the lit area as well as on the edges of the lit area. The reduction in excess light allows a driver to more safely transition to and from the business.
The researchers and the station owners were surprised when the station conducting the lighting research experienced an immediate increase in business. Not only does it look more attractive but the reduced light output costs less to operate.
Glare severely diminishes our ability to see properly in the nighttime environment. This jeopardizes everyone’s safety and robs many light sensitive people of their ability to drive at night. Safety should demand that the best visibility possible is provided during the times people will be present.
Many lighting designs seem to be trying to outdo the other lights in the neighborhood to see who can have the brightest lights. As you pull out of a glary, brightly lit area into the street or vice versa, it takes your eyes time to adjust. During that adjustment period you and any other cars or pedestrians nearby are at risk. Safety and visibility are improved with minimal lighting combined with reflective signs and road markings. This practice of using minimal lighting that is focused where you need it and out of your eyes will let the human eye work at its best.
Safety
Photos Copyright 2002, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute;
Used by permission of the Rensselaer Lighting Research Center.
Effective Outdoor Lighting
