An office specification needs more than a panel marked “500 lux” or “UGR <19.” Light levels and glare are properties of the installation, so review the fixture within the actual room layout.
Identify the tasks and reference criteria
EN 12464-1 addresses lighting of indoor workplaces. Confirm the edition and requirements used by the project, then identify reading, screen work, circulation, meeting areas, and any specialist tasks.
State the working plane and maintained target
A target such as 500 lux is meaningful only with a defined task area, working plane, maintenance factor, and surrounding-area criteria. Record these in the design brief and calculation report.
Review glare from occupied positions
A tabulated UGR value uses reference conditions. Check the actual room dimensions, surface reflectances, fixture spacing, and viewing directions. Review reflections on screens as part of the sample installation.
Check uniformity and color quality
Compare the minimum and average light levels, not just the average. Specify CCT and color tolerance across the installation. Use the required color-rendering criteria and sample review where finishes or skin tones are important.
Coordinate controls with the design
Define daylight zones, occupancy detection, manual overrides, and after-hours use. Check the building requirements that apply locally. Controls should maintain the agreed task conditions while reducing unnecessary operating hours.
Request a reproducible layout
Ask for the fixture file, dimensions, mounting height, reflectances, maintenance assumptions, calculation grid, and control schedule. Measure the completed installation and keep the results with the handover record.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does UGR <19 on a datasheet guarantee the office result?
No. The glare result depends on the room, layout, and viewing directions used in the assessment.
Can I use one light level throughout an office?
Different tasks and surrounding areas may have different requirements. Prepare the brief by activity and location.