What is the influence of a dynamically controlled lighting solution on the well-being of employees working in shifts?  This question has been dealt with in depth by a research team.

In the context of a scientific study, the impact of dynamic lighting sequences on early-shift workers in an Austrian manufacturing company has been analysed. The result: dynamic room lighting has a positive impact on the well-being of shift workers. Apart from a sounder sleep, relaxation of the autonomic nervous system was proven. Explains Philippe Rettenbacher, Zumtobel Product Manager for Industry and Engineering: "The results of the study allow us to highlight the benefits of the added value of and the investment into high-quality lighting solutions, and to offer our industrial customers even better advice."    
 
Study purpose
It was the aim of the interdisciplinary study to measure the biological effects of dynamic room lighting on shift workers. Being part of the research team, Zumtobel installed 500 TECTON 2/54W (4000K) continuous-row luminaires and the LUXMATE EMOTION lighting management system in the new production bay of the Carinthian electronics company Flextronics.

Measuring method
For ambient lighting, two dynamic lighting scenarios were chosen. In order to create any biological effect, the lighting sequences run ranged from basic standard illuminance (1000 lux) to high illuminance levels (2000 lux). On the one hand, there was a perceptible variation of brightness to influence workers’ alertness at the beginning and their fatigue towards the end of the shift. To achieve this, the intervals of the dynamic scenarios were deliberately extended. On the other hand, dynamic brightness variations were tested which, due to short continuous intervals, were not perceptible to the shift workers.

Positive impact of dynamic lighting
It was finally proven, by checking numerous critical variables, that both dynamic settings had a positive impact on the well-being of workers during shift work as well as on nocturnal sleeping quality. Accordingly, dynamic lighting during shift work was shown to be closely associated with the psychological and physiological state of the workers.

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