Nothing will disrupt workers more quickly than glare, resulting from excessive and uncontrolled brightness. Not only is it distracting but it can cause physical symptoms such as headaches and eye strain, both of which contribute to lost working time and reduced wellbeing.
Why glare happens
There are three main causes of glare in the workplace – sunlight, harsh overhead lighting and reflections from shiny surfaces. Identifying the cause of glare is essential if it is to be addressed and worker comfort improved.
Eliminating glare
If glare occurs as a result of direct sunlight, a Brise Soleil such as those offered by alusystems.uk/brise-soleil-solar-shading/, can be very effective, reducing glare on computer screens and reducing overheating, contributing to a more comfortable working environment.
Harsh overhead lights can be replaced with adjustable or indirect light fixtures to deliver a more comfortable light distribution. Painting walls in colours that absorb or diffuse light can also help to create a softer and more ambient feel.
If shiny surfaces are reflecting light and causing glare, it may be necessary to re-evaluate the office’s floorplan, moving computer screens around so that they are out of the line of reflection. Fixing blinds to internal glasswork, such as meeting room windows and glass barriers around hot desking areas not only improves privacy for workers but is a very effective method of reducing reflective glare.
In conclusion, establishing the root cause of the glare is the first step in developing a strategy to eliminate it. As worker wellbeing is always an organisational priority, addressing glare can boost morale and enhance productivity.
