Lighting Glare is a significant consideration in environments, such as airport aprons, where optimal visibility is crucial for safety and efficiency.
In this blog, CU Phosco explores the concept of Glare, its types, how it impacts lighting design, and practical solutions for minimising its hazards.
1. WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF GLARE?
Glare in lighting can be classified into two primary types:
- Discomfort Glare: Causes visual discomfort without necessarily reducing the visibility of objects. It is commonly experienced when there is an imbalance between light sources, making it harder to maintain focus.
- Disability Glare: Reduces visibility and makes it difficult to see objects due to excessive brightness. This type of glare significantly impairs vision and can compromise safety, especially on airport aprons where precision is critical.
There are also situational distinctions, including direct glare (from the light source itself) and reflected glare (caused by reflections from surfaces like wet tarmac or glass).
2. WHAT IS LIGHTING GLARE?
Lighting Glare occurs when there is excessive brightness or contrast in the field of view, leading to visual discomfort or impairment. It is typically caused by poorly positioned or overly bright light sources.
In industrial settings like airport aprons, it can obstruct critical tasks by creating harsh contrasts that reduce the eye’s ability to adapt quickly between bright and dark areas.
3. WHAT IS GLARE IN LIGHTING
In the context of lighting, glare refers to the presence of light that disrupts the clarity or comfort of vision. This can occur due to poor luminaire placement, inappropriate light intensity, or reflective surfaces.
Glare is particularly concerning in large outdoor spaces like airport aprons, where uniform and controlled lighting is essential to ensure the safe movement of aircraft and personnel.
4. HOW CAN GLARE BE MINIMISED IN LIGHTING DESIGN
Minimising Glare in lighting design requires strategic planning and the right technology. Key techniques include:
- Optimised Luminaire Placement: Ensuring lights are positioned at appropriate angles to reduce direct exposure to the eyes.
- Use of Shields and Baffles: Installing glare shields, louvres, or baffles on luminaires to direct light downward and away from critical sightlines.
- Adjusting Light Intensity: Using dimmable or adaptive lighting systems to control brightness levels based on operational needs.
- Uniform Light Distribution: Designing the layout to minimise contrasts between illuminated and shadowed areas, ensuring even lighting across the apron.
5. WHAT CAN BE DONE TO MINIMISE THE HAZARDS OF GLARE
Several strategies can be employed to reduce the risks associated with Glare:
- Employ Glare-Reduction Technology: Use luminaires with anti-Glare features, such as asymmetric optics or specialised diffusers.
- Regular Maintenance: Ensure lights are clean and properly aligned to prevent excessive brightness due to dirt or misalignment.
- Incorporate Reflective Surface Management: Treat or design surfaces to minimise reflective Glare, such as non-glossy finishes on apron pavement or equipment.
- Staff Training: Educate personnel on glare hazards and how to position themselves in relation to lighting to avoid direct exposure.
6. WHAT IS GLARE PROJECTION LIGHTING?
Glare Projection Lighting refers to lighting systems designed specifically to project light over large areas while minimising Glare. These systems use advanced optical designs to control the direction and spread of light, ensuring that high illumination levels are achieved without causing visual discomfort or impairing visibility.
CU Phosco’s Glare-controlled luminaires, such as the FL830, are an example of how modern technology can enhance safety by delivering precise light where it is needed without the downsides of Glare.
CONCLUSION
Glare is a critical factor in lighting design, particularly on airport aprons where safety and visibility are paramount. By understanding the types of Glare, how it manifests, and the techniques to mitigate it, designers and operators can create safer, more efficient environments.
At CU Phosco, we are committed to delivering innovative lighting solutions that enhance visibility while minimizing glare hazards. Contact us to learn more about our glare-reduction technologies tailored to airport apron lighting.