Daylight control, also known as daylight harvesting, automatically adjusts office lighting to match the available natural light. This keeps the light in the workplace more pleasant and consistent, while simultaneously reducing unnecessary operating hours and energy consumption.
How the control system works during the workday
A daylight sensor measures the amount of light entering the workspace, often per zone along the facade. The control system dims dimmable LED panels or other fixtures as soon as there is enough daylight and increases the output again when it gets darker outside. This keeps the illuminance level in the office more consistent and prevents lighting from operating at full strength when it is not needed. In many installations, this is combined with light and presence sensors and DALI control.
Benefits for comfort and energy consumption
For offices, daylight control primarily delivers the following practical benefits:
- Lower energy costs through reduced operating hours and smart dimming, fitting seamlessly into sustainable office lighting.
- Enhanced visual comfort because zones near windows respond differently than workspaces further inside.
- Reduced over-lighting, creating a more pleasant environment for working with screens and focused office tasks.
By linking the control system to window shading, you make better use of daylight without additional glare or unwanted room heating.
Lux and standards for office lighting
Daylight control only works effectively when the target level is correct and you know how many lumens and lux you need. For standard office workspaces, lighting is typically designed around 500 lux at the desk. For other zones, values are generally lower.The exact guideline values depend on the task and are tested in practice against, among other things, thestandard for workplace lighting (EN 12464-1) .
| Room | Typical guideline value |
|---|---|
| Workstation with computer screen | 500 lux |
| Conference room | 300-500 lux |
| Walkways | 100-300 lux |
When is daylight control useful?
This solution is particularly interesting in spaces with windows, facades, or domes. In deep office floors, zone control works best: areas near the window dim sooner than workstations further inside. When choosing, pay attention to proper sensor placement, dimmable drivers, and a control system that suits your fixtures and layout.Choose office ceiling lighting where necessary that works well with sensors and dimmable controls.
Frequently asked questions about daylight control in the office
Is daylight mandatory in the office?
In many work situations, a workspace must have access to sufficient daylight, unless the function of the room does not allow it. The precise requirement depends on the building and its use.
What is the standard for lighting in offices?
For screen-based and administrative work, 500 lux on the work surface is a commonly used guideline within the workplace lighting standard. Lower levels often apply to meeting rooms and traffic areas.
What are the requirements for lighting in the workplace?
Lighting must provide sufficient light, be safe, and suit the activities. In practice, you look at the lux level, uniformity, glare limitation, and emergency lighting where necessary.
Want to know which sensors for automatic lighting control, dimmable drivers, or LED panels suit your office? LedLokethelps with personal technical advice, a free commercial lighting design for offices, and fast delivery from our own stock.
