Offices need lighting. This is a fact. Nobody is going to get any work done in the dark, but that means choosing the right type of lighting for the space in question.

Many offices opt for fluorescent lighting, mainly because it’s cheap, it’s readily available, and it does the job it needs to do. Despite that, there are a few myths and truths surrounding fluorescent lighting which may cause you to question whether or not this is the right type of lighting for your office. 

For those sitting at the office seating, fluorescent lighting can certainly be a little harsh if the right type isn’t chosen, and it’s also not the most flattering of lights, that’s for sure!

Despite those facts, fluorescent lighting isn’t all bad. All you need to do is make sure you invest in high-quality options and that you know the facts before making a decision on your office lighting plan. Of course, it goes without saying that you should make sure a large amount of natural light makes its way into your office at the same time. This has major health and mood benefits and it’s also free!

To help you figure out whether fluorescent lighting is for you, let’s check out a few of the common ideas around this type of widely used lighting method. 

Does Fluorescent Lighting Give Off Radiation?

Whilst sitting at your executive office chairs, are you at risk of radiation issues because of your fluorescent lighting? Not really, but it’s worth watching your exposure. 

Certain types of fluorescent lamps are thought to give off a small amount of radiation, but studies have shown that this is not enough to cause any damage and not enough to cause cancer development in people who sit in offices lit by these types of lamps. Remember, your mobile phone gives off a certain amount of radiation but nobody is cutting down on their iPhone usage anytime soon!

Does Fluorescent Lighting Cause Headaches, Eyestrain And Migraines?

It can, yes, but not always. If a light is flickering or it’s too bright then, of course, it’s going to contribute towards a headache. A flicking light is also a common migraine trigger. Despite that, you can’t lay the blame of headaches, eyestrain and migraines completely at the door of fluorescent lighting. 

Some people are more sensitive to lighting changes, e.g. slight flickers, and in that case, they’re the people who are more likely to be affected by fluorescent lighting. Because this type of lighting can often be quite bright, that’s another thing to be on the lookout for. Of course, you can minimise this by ensuring that your lighting isn’t too bright and replacing any lights which start to flicker. You can also purchase filters to go over fluorescent lights, to minimise these possible effects. 

Do Fluorescent Lights Affect Your Sleep Quality?

There is some suggestion that if you sit in an office with fluorescent lighting, you’re less lightly to sleep well at night because it upsets the circadian rhythms within the body. 

Is it true? Slightly but not to a degree large enough to cause concern whilst sitting at your round office desk.  

Fluorescent lights emit a little radiation, as we mentioned, but they also emit blue light which is known to upset the amount of melatonin the body produces. This is what helps us to fall asleep. However, you’ll be fine if you avoid sitting close to blue light just before bed, during your office hours should be fine. 

As you can see, the common rumours around fluorescent lights are actually mostly false, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t think carefully about the right type of lighting for your office and then do your research into the main lighting dos and don’ts. By being more mindful before making a decision, you’ll ensure that the room is properly lit and that everyone within the space is comfortable at the same time.