To comply with the brightness requirements set out in NR-17, it is essential to use devices such aslux meter, capable of measuring light intensity in indoor environments.
The use of natural light as an alternative for lighting meets the global trend of boostingsustainability in industry, as it takes advantage of a resource freely available in nature to comply with current regulations andminimize electricity costs.
Measuring light intensity can be done by evaluating several factors, including: brightness, illuminance or illumination, luminous flux and luminous intensity. According to NR-17, it is established thatIndustries must carry out lighting measurements in their internal areas.
What is the lux meter
The lux meter is a tool used to measure luminosity in indoor environments. It is a generally portable device, which makes its use more practical.
It absorbs and calculates the luminosity of a given location,controlling this luminosity so that it remains comfortablein the eyes of everyone present at the scene.
How the lux meter works
The lux meter sensor detects the intensity of lighting bylumensthat affect one square meter. The lumen is theluminous flux generated by a candela(standard measure of light intensity) in a given radius. In this way, the lighting determined bynumber of lumensthat affect one square meter.
The international unit of measurement for luminescence is thelux (lx), which represents the luminous flux present in 1m² of surface (lux = lumen/m²). The amount indicated for a space will depend on the type of activity performed and the amount of time that employees tend to stay in that location.
How to handle the lux meter
When using a lux meter, some care must be taken to ensure that measurements are carried out correctly.correct. The first step isadjust the device’s reading scale, to obtain results faithful to reality.
When taking the measurement, it is important to look for asuitable location, where there are no shadows that could hinder the performance of the sensor, which needs to be parallel to the surface being analyzed (table, bench, etc.).
If there is no suitable location, the measurement can be carried out at a height of75 cmin relation to the floor, in a horizontal plane. If it is not possible to support the sensor horizontally in a fixed location, it is possible to carry out the measurement by holding the device in your hands. However, it is necessary to pay attention to theleveling, as an angle may affect the reading result, as the sensor will not be correctly exposed to light.
How to measure natural lighting with a lux meter
The use ofnatural lightin industries, it is an alternative that prioritizes environmental sustainability and has been adopted by several companies. This type of lighting must also followrules imposed by technical standards.
For measurements to remain accurate, it is necessary to adopt a method or parameters that best suit the environment in question. It is important to take measurements at different times of the day and year, in addition to using thesensor at various points in the location.
In environments that make use of natural light, the so-called “sky measurement”, which can be done naturally (easier, but with less precision in results) or in a laboratory way (through simulation, with greater fidelity of results).
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Amount of lux with natural lighting
In environments that require a clear and meticulous vision, lighting is required.greater than 2,000 lux. In places that do not require as much visibility and with reduced permanence, valuesbelow 200 lux.
For internal areas, it is necessary to seek ideal conditions both in terms of comfort and ease of obtaining all the visual information necessary for theadequate performance of work activities.
Benefits of natural lighting
In addition to energy consumption, it is important to always consider the lighting capacity of the system used, so that it is in accordance with therules established for the location.
Carrying out periodic measurements is essential to keep your company always in compliance with current legislation.
The search forsustainability in industryis a great justification for taking advantage of all the advantages offered by usingnatural light, including the significant reduction in electricity costs.
Natural lighting guarantees a series of benefits, helping to increase the quality of life of employees and even assuming a hygiene factor, asinhibits the growth of bacteria and the proliferation of fungi.
Furthermore, natural light is known to reduce the effects of depression and is related to the degree of satisfaction with the environment.
OMB Groupdevelops various natural lighting solutions and systems. Contact our team and find out about the products and services offered!
