The LIA looks at how lighting can play a part in future developments.
In today’s evolving built environment, lighting has become more than just a way to illuminate spaces – it is an integral part of creating human-centric, energy-efficient smart buildings. As discussed at the Smart Buildings Show, we are witnessing a transformation in how lighting systems are designed to support both functional needs and occupant well-being. The shift from basic lighting to human-centric lighting (HCL) is reshaping the industry, driving new standards across various sectors.
Lighting: beyond illumination
Modern lighting systems now enhance both comfort and energy efficiency. The most advanced HCL systems adjust based on natural daylight, occupancy, and personal preferences, improving comfort and reducing artificial light usage. This personalised approach not only boosts energy efficiency but also contributes to a more sustainable environment.
The role of lighting and controls manufacturers extends beyond producing high-quality products. They are stepping up to provide integrated solutions by developing their own lighting controls or partnering with controls specialists. However, these systems must be correctly specified and not value-engineered out during the construction process. To fully realise the benefits of HCL, tighter specifications and a shift in mindset are crucial.
The business case for human-centric lighting
HCL delivers significant benefits to businesses by improving employee health, satisfaction, and productivity. The 3-30-300 rule developed by JLL highlights how critical employee well-being is to a company’s bottom line. While companies spend approximately £3 per square foot on utilities and £30 on rent, they spend £300 on employee payroll. A 10% boost in productivity can save companies far more than energy efficiencies alone.
In a post-pandemic world where hybrid working is now commonplace, optimising office environments for well-being is more valuable than ever. HCL systems can create more comfortable and inclusive environments, supporting neurodiverse individuals or employees with photosensitivity. This also helps companies comply with the UK Equality Act 2010, which requires reasonable adjustments for employees with disabilities or health conditions.
The Circadian debate
Circadian lighting, which supports the natural sleep-wake cycle by mimicking natural light patterns, remains an area of ongoing research. Although it’s widely accepted that inadequate exposure to daylight disrupts circadian rhythms, adoption of circadian lighting systems remains slow due to concerns over upfront costs and complexity. However, the benefits, such as faster patient recovery in hospitals and improved performance in schools, are increasingly clear.
Simplifying lighting choices in a fragmented market: Why choose LIA members?
In today’s fragmented lighting market, selecting the right lighting solutions can be a complex task. With many new, less-regulated players, distinguishing between substandard and high-quality products is challenging. This is where the Lighting Industry Association (LIA) plays a key role.
LIA members are rigorously audited to meet stringent standards for quality, safety, and operational excellence. The LIA also operates one of the UK’s few UKAS-accredited testing and certification laboratories, ensuring that products are thoroughly tested for safety and performance before reaching the market. Third-party verification schemes, such as the LIA Safety Certificate, offer additional validation, reducing the risk of selecting substandard lighting that could compromise safety and performance.
The LIA is also deeply engaged in market surveillance to remove substandard products and raise the overall quality of lighting systems. By contributing to International, European, and UK standards committees, the LIA ensures that regulations enhance energy efficiency, well-being, safety, and comfort.
By choosing LIA members as suppliers and looking for the LIA certification logos, companies are investing in products and operations that meet the highest industry standards. These logos signify more than just compliance – they represent a guarantee of quality, safety, and long-term reliability, giving businesses the confidence they need in their lighting and controls systems.
The future: personalisation, well-being, and sustainability
As we move forward, the focus on lighting’s role in enhancing well-being and personal comfort will continue to grow. Intelligent controls that allow occupants to adjust their lighting to suit their needs are key to creating more inclusive workspaces. LIA members lead in delivering innovative, integrated lighting systems that meet the complex demands of modern smart buildings, while addressing sustainability concerns and incorporating smart controls that reduce energy consumption and light pollution.
By ensuring that lighting systems are secure, sustainable, and adaptable, the industry is well-placed to meet the needs of both today’s and tomorrow’s smart buildings.
Looking ahead: a collaborative approach
Human-centric lighting is not just a trend – it’s a business imperative. It supports the well-being of occupants while driving down costs and energy consumption. As the industry continues to evolve, collaboration between manufacturers, specifiers, and contractors will be critical. The LIA plays a key role in educating stakeholders on the long-term benefits of HCL and ensuring that these systems are integrated seamlessly into building designs, helping create smarter, healthier, and more sustainable spaces for the future.