The development of the LED industry leads to the need for improving LED light efficiency. The abbreviation UGR stands for Unified Glare Rating. This rating represents the degree to which light sources can cause discomfort to people depending on their position relative to the light.
Why is the UGR Value Important?
UGR tells us how likely a luminaire in our field of vision is to cause discomfort or interfere with our ability to see.
Imagine sitting in a room and feeling that the light is too harsh or makes you squint – that's what UGR measures.
Lighting is often an underestimated component in companies and deserves more attention. Workplace comfort is significantly influenced by lighting. Light should be bright enough for work, but not so bright that it causes discomfort.
What is the Most Appropriate UGR Index?
Studies have found that people who live and work in a light-polluted environment for a long time will experience varying degrees of retinal and iris damage, and their vision will decrease. One of the reasons is the pollution of the visual environment.
Different UGR values correspond to different sensitivity levels.
Choosing the Right UGR Value
When choosing lighting for your environment, a lower UGR ensures that you'll get a bright room without the discomfort of excessively harsh or glaring lights. This means you're less likely to experience eye fatigue or be bothered by excessive brightness.
For workspaces, especially where computers are used, you would typically want lighting with a UGR value of 19 or less. The best lights for comfort can even go down to UGR 6, meaning they are super gentle on your eyes.
In homes, especially for rooms where you read, watch TV, or use a computer, choosing lights with a low UGR can reduce eye strain, prevent screen glare, and improve the overall visual experience. And a low UGR value in the dining area prevents strong glare, allowing people to see their food clearly and enjoy conversations without squinting or straining their eyes.
UGR in Practice
When selecting a luminaire with reduced glare or low UGR, several design features can make a difference:
- Honeycomb-type luminaires - soften glare by preventing direct viewing of the light source.
- Recessed fixtures - placing the bulb deeper inside can prevent excessive direct light intensity.
- Precisely designed reflectors - ensure that light is distributed evenly.
- Diffusers - often made of frosted glass or plastic, play a major role in softening the light flux.
Indirect lighting is an effective strategy for minimizing glare. Luminaires that shine upward, reflecting off ceilings or walls, create an even atmosphere without glare.
Conclusion
At Polaris, you can find a variety of luminaires suitable for the comfort of your vision.
