Working from home? Why light is important

In these modern days of freelancing, the ‘gig economy’ and mompreneurs, more of more of us are choosing to work from home. Whilst this sounds terrifically comfortable, it can be fraught with health hazards – as correct light is so important.

Firstly, let’s look why light is important when working from home and then follow up by saying how the correct blind can help.

The importance of light when working from home

Perhaps the most obvious concern about lighting in the home is the type of light is arguably more important than the amount of light.

Homes generally are not as geared up for the intricacies of working, especially involving IT and electronic equipment, as generally homes are designed for beauty and style rather than function. As such, ‘soft light’ – backlights, low-power fashionable lights are sometimes more common around the home than the correct type of light for working.

Most homes tend to rely on ambient lighting rather than detailed lighting, for example think how many ‘reading lamps’ you see around houses these days? Often you may see people reading on the sofa, straining their eyes to try to catch the main overhead light – and think how their health could be damaged.

Headaches, eye strains, fatigue are all common causes of readers or workers not using the correct type of light. For detail work, an overhead spot lamp or flexible-stemmed detail light is preferable, as the light can then be adjusted to the user’s requirements.

When you’re considering a work space, always ensure there is detail and ambient light. It’s not enough to rely on one type (e.g. a spotlight on a desk in a room in total darkness)  but both types of light MUST be present.

Likewise natural light is the final type of light that needs to be available for healthy working from home. Natural sunlight boosts our immune system, makes us feel better, as well increasing essential bodily functionality (such as producing Vitamin D).

How the correct blind can improve natural light

Whilst we’ve already mentioned the benefits of using detail lamps to support ambient light, blinds are equally beneficial for improving natural light.

When sunlight is too bright, blinds can be adjusted to reduce glare and shield workers from excessive light and even heat. By tilting the slats in some blinds, or retracting others, more light can be let into a room and thus increasing natural, ambient light to healthier levels.

Finally, blackout blinds are becoming more popular and should not be overlooked when working from home. Well, in honesty, when resting at home – because blackout blinds can improve the quality of sleep by minimising light disruption (even at night) from streetlamp, other houses etc.

Conclusion: Light is important when working from home, and the correct blind can help immensely

So if you’re considering working from home, here’s our summary to help you make the best (and healthiest )workplace possible

• Pick a work place where you have sufficient natural and ambient light
• Use a detailed spotlight, work lamp or reading lamp to ensure improved light around specific areas such as writing pads, books etc.
• Consider blinds – perhaps even blackout blinds – to control light ingress, glare and flexibility rather than drapes or curtains