Biologically Effective Lighting:
a dream of the future, or already long a reality?

German-English simultaneously

Overall responsibility: German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) /
Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA) /
Commission for Occupational Health and Safety and Standardization (KAN)

Light has two functions for human beings. It enables them to see, and also has non-visual effects. Light therefore helps the body‘s internal clock to keep time, i.e. to maintain the circadian rhythm.
Light also has an effect at any workplace, irrespective of whether this effect is brought about intentionally. Lighting systems have been available commercially for some years now that have the purpose of exerting a biological effect upon the human body over and above that needed for vision. When natural light is not available at the workplace, as in large industrial shops for example, simulating it with selective, artificial, biologically effective lighting would appear an obvious alternative.
However, OSH experts have reservations concerning the use of these lighting systems and binding regulations governing them, since the systems may also present risks, and long-term studies have not yet been performed. The wrong light at the wrong time for example can impact negatively upon the human circadian rhythm.
Delegates attending this event will learn more about biologically effective lighting, the technology currently in use, and the current state of progress of occupational safety and health in this area. The event also provides an opportunity to discuss experiences and any uncertainties regarding this new tech- nology.
This congress block is an event held jointly by the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV), the Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA) and the Commission for Occupational Health and Safety and Standardization (KAN).