Any lighting that is specifically used for things like reading, studying, grooming, cooking and preparing meals is considered task lighting. While different light sources can be used such as a table, floor or desk lamp, a pendant, recessed or track lighting, there are a few tricks to making sure the light is in the best spot.

The main thing you want to do is make sure that while the light is bright enough to manage the task at hand, it doesn’t shine in yours (or anyone else’s) eyes and is free of distracting glare.

So how bright should task lighting be? As a guide, the light needs to be bright enough to ensure you can read, sew, study and work without straining your eyes, and perform tasks like chopping vegetables safely.

 

Follow these task lighting tips:

  • To avoid glare, lighting should be located to the side of the task, not in front of it.
  • If you’re right-handed, place your light on the left side of your work area and vice-versa if you’re left-handed. This helps reduce to chance of shadows on your workspace.
  • To stop light shining in your (or anyone else’s) eyes, adjust it downward, onto the task surface (such as a document you are reading).