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Not all lights are made equal. Some are used for decorative purposes, such as inside living spaces, while others are geared more towards maximising function. Functional lighting is common in commercial spaces. For example, in schools and offices, you’ll see heavy use of lighting designed to provide adequate lux levels for tasks. In retail stores, you’ll often see a mix of decorative and functional lighting.
Establishing the right lighting levels is extremely important because it not only helps illuminate spaces but also aids in tasks that require careful detail, like designing, writing, drawing, and displaying products.
If you want to maximise the lighting in your commercial space, this guide is all you need. Read on to learn more about lighting levels, the EN 12464-1 standard, and how it supports productivity in offices, schools, and shops:
EN 12464-1 might seem like a random code, but it’s actually an important lighting standard widely used in the UK. It sets the requirements for lighting in indoor workspaces and defines how bright and even lighting should be. It also outlines recommended glare limits for optimal lighting.
The standard is used in offices, school classrooms, retail stores, and other commercial spaces to ensure lighting supports tasks, reduces eye strain and provides a comfortable working environment.
Brightness is measured in lux. Typically, 150–200 lux is enough to move around a large space, while 300–500 lux is recommended for detail-focused work.
How much light falls onto a surface or task area.
How evenly the light is spread. Avoids bright spots and dark patches that create visual discomfort.
UGR measures how much glare is visible to the user. Lower glare = better comfort.
Defines how accurately colours appear under the light. Crucial for retail, design and classrooms.
The vertical light on people or objects. Essential for visibility of faces and vertical surfaces.
Good lighting reduces eye strain and boosts productivity.
Prevents accidents in workplaces such as warehouses, stairs, corridors and retail spaces.
Stops businesses from over-lighting spaces. Lux audits ensure only the required lighting is installed.
Correct colour temperature and CRI ensure natural-looking colours – vital in retail and design.
PIR sensors detect movement and turn lights on only when needed – ideal for large offices, warehouses and school corridors.
Automatically adjust lighting levels based on natural light entering the building.
Used for retail displays, photography areas and large spaces. LED versions offer the best efficiency.
A cost-saving option for outdoor areas, parking and even indoor spaces with strong natural light.
To correctly apply the EN 12464-1 standard, a qualified commercial electrician should carry out the installation. Key steps include:
Calder Electrical provides complete lighting solutions for commercial, industrial and residential properties.
We survey your property, redesign lighting layouts, incorporate sensors, and typically reduce lighting costs by around 40%.
We install new lighting to current BS7671 standards and carry out electrical testing and maintenance via NICEIC-certified electricians.
Contact us here or call 0800 612 3001 to speak to our experts today.
Photo by Deliberate Directions on Unsplash
