Industries of all kinds rely on lighting for much more than illumination. Whether we’re discussing warehouses or manufacturing facilities, commercial buildings or office spaces, the lighting used directly influences safety, productivity, and energy costs, among other things. From different types of light fixtures to modern light sources, lighting options are plentiful for those looking to upgrade. For businesses, the right lighting can help optimize production, reduce costs, and ensure compliance with local energy codes. But choosing the right system isn’t as simple as flipping a switch.
For businesses in Northborough, understanding how industrial lighting works and how it impacts the day-to-day operations illuminates the importance of choosing the right lighting system. After reviewing the basics, we’ll discuss the top 10 considerations for business owners and facility managers when choosing industrial lighting for their space.
What Is Industrial Lighting? How Does It Impact Business?
Industrial lighting is uniquely designed to meet the needs of industrial spaces, from large-scale, high-demand factories to logistics facilities. These specialized lighting systems are different than residential lighting, built to withstand tough conditions while providing light bright enough to cover large areas. Industrial lighting must also operate consistently for extended periods, even 24/7 in some cases.
The impact of industrial lighting cannot be overstated, as lighting quality directly affects how the facility functions. Poor lighting can cause eye strain, decreased productivity, increase the risk for workplace accidents, and increase energy costs. On the flip side, proper lighting enhances worker safety by reducing workplace accidents by up to 60%. By improving visibility, industrial lighting improves productivity and enhances the quality of production and machine operations. In addition to increasing production and workplace safety, efficient lighting systems reduce energy costs, a significant expense for businesses across Massachusetts.
For facilities in Northborough, artificial lighting is often relied on for much of the day during fall and winter, making lighting reliability and efficiency extremely important. Working with local electricians, businesses can expertly plan a system that helps them control operational costs while maintaining safety and an effective workplace. First, one must have a better understanding of the types of lights available. Let’s take a look.
Common Types of Industrial Lighting
Different industries require different lighting solutions. Lighting decisions are based on factors such as ceiling height, task requirements, and environmental conditions. Lighting choices consist of two categories: light source and fixture type. By understanding both these categories, businesses can select the right combination for their specific industrial needs.
First, let’s look at the different types of light sources, which refer to the way in which light is produced. The light source plays an integral role in the energy efficiency, lifespan, and color quality of the light system.
- Light-Emitting Diode (LED): LED lights are the leading light source in industrial lighting today and the industry’s current standard across most applications. This modern technology offers superior energy efficiency, longevity, and excellent color.
- High-Intensity Discharge (HID): HID lights are common in older installations, providing high lumen output suitable for large spaces. However, this light source consumes more energy, requires a warm-up time, and generates significant heat.
- Fluorescent: Typically linear tubes, fluorescent lighting has traditionally been popular for its even light distribution, but it is far less efficient than LED lights. Fluorescents are known to flicker and dim in cold temperatures and contain mercury, making them environmentally unfriendly.
- Other Sources: Other industrial lighting sources include halogen and incandescent bulbs, but they are rarely used in modern settings. These types of light sources are not efficient and have a short lifespan.
Now, we’ll examine light fixture types. These describe housing, optics, and mounting styles regarding the lighting unit. Most modern fixtures are primarily LED-based, but older types are still found in some designs.
- High Bay: These fixtures are designed for industrial spaces that have ceilings over 20 feet high. Found in businesses such as warehouses and large manufacturing halls, high bay lighting provides powerful downward-projected light.
- Low Bay: Fixtures for facilities with ceilings below 20 feet; low-bay fixtures are commonly used in areas such as retail backrooms or workshops.
- Flood Lights: Intense lighting, flood lights produce a broad beam that is beneficial for illuminating large outdoor areas. Floodlights are often mounted on poles or on the exterior of the building and are essential for security.
- Task Lighting: These are focused lights used for individual workstations for detailed tasks.
- Explosion-Proof: These fixtures were designed with safety in mind. These light fixtures are required in chemical processing plants, paint booths, and grain handling facilities, among others. Modern versions of explosion-proof lighting are almost strictly LED.
With the basics of light fixtures and sources covered, it’s time to explore the most important factors to consider when choosing industrial lighting.
10 Things to Consider When Choosing Industrial Lighting
When choosing industrial lighting, consider these 10 factors to ensure your choice aligns with operational needs and expectations:
- Brightness and Coverage Needs for the Space: Every industry and industrial building has unique lighting needs. Larger buildings with high ceilings require different lighting than smaller workshops to support visibility and safety. And with some industries preferring a softer, more ambient light, the number of lumens a fixture produces will dictate how much light it emits. Choosing light fixtures with the appropriate lumen output ensures adequate brightness without wasting energy.
- Operating Costs and Energy Efficiency: One of the largest contributors to expenses in an industrial setting is lighting. Prioritizing energy-efficient options, such as LEDs, significantly reduces energy usage, resulting in lower monthly power bills. In Massachusetts, businesses can qualify for rebates when upgrading older lighting systems through programs like Mass Save.
- Durability, Reliability, and Longevity: The lighting in industrial environments must be tough. Factors such as dust, moisture, temperature, chemical exposure, and vibrations can affect lighting performance. The choice of light fixture should be rated for the specific industry and the facility’s conditions. For Northborough facilities dealing with winter humidity, choosing IP-rated fixtures can ensure reliability and increase longevity. Having durable, reliable, long-lasting lighting also helps reduce maintenance time and costs.
- Color Temperature and Rendering: The color temperature of a light source affects the “feel” of the space. For a more comfortable workspace, warmer tones are best, and for those who need high visibility, cooler tones are recommended. Color rendering refers to how well a light source shows the real colors of an object. For industries such as printing and those that involve quality inspection, accurate color rendering is essential.
- Safety and Compliance: Industrial lighting must comply with safety standards and local electrical codes. In hazardous sites, one must ensure compliance with explosion-proof requirements. Working with local electricians in Northborough who are licensed and insured and familiar with local codes will ensure any lighting upgrades meet industry standards and comply with local codes.
- Regional Weather Conditions: Before upgrading lighting systems, factor in the local climate. Temperature extremes, humidity, or corrosive elements can influence how lighting systems function. During a cold Massachusetts winter, fluorescent lights may not function as well as they should, making LEDs the preferable option for consistent operation in unheated spaces.
- Maintenance and Accessibility: Light fixtures that are difficult to reach increase operational downtime and the cost of system maintenance. Choosing bulbs with long lifespans can eliminate the need for frequent replacement and reduce replacement costs.
- Automated Controls and Smart Features: Modern technology is affecting almost every part of our daily lives, including industrial lighting systems. Lighting controls for occupancy sensors, timers, and daylight harvesting systems can significantly reduce energy waste. These automated and smart technologies can adjust lighting based on usage and the availability of natural light, improving efficiency without sacrificing visibility.
- Initial and Long-Term Costs: In business, cost is always a consideration. Upfront prices will vary depending on the type and quantity of lights installed and whether any additional electrical work is required. However, the long-term savings, along with potential rebates, can lead to a quick return on the initial investment.
- Future Growth: A booming business is a growing business. When considering an upgrade to an industrial lighting system, think of how the property may change over time. Choosing a lighting system that can adapt to changes, expansions, or new equipment will help protect the investment and ensure long-term use.
Industrial Lighting Upgrades
When upgrading industrial lighting (or choosing for a new property), there are many considerations beyond visibility. From a safer environment to a more efficient and productive workspace, industrial lighting is more impactful than one might imagine. With a better understanding of how lighting affects daily operations, owners and facility managers can make decisions that benefit both the business and employees. With appropriate considerations, partnering with a local electrician, and proper planning, industrial lighting can become a powerful asset rather than another overlooked expense.