Accommodation: Task Lighting

AT-A-GLANCE

Challenge Type: Light Sensitivity / Visual Fatigue

Accommodation Type: Environmental Modification

Summary: Task Lighting is a workplace accommodation that involves providing focused, adjustable lighting to assist employees in performing specific tasks that require enhanced visibility. This accommodation typically involves desk lamps or specialized light fixtures that offer more direct and customizable lighting compared to standard overhead lights. Task lighting can help reduce eye strain, improve focus, and support productivity, especially in tasks involving fine details, reading, or working in environments with inadequate ambient lighting. It allows employees to control their immediate lighting needs without affecting others in shared or open workspaces.

What is Task Lighting?

Task lighting, also known as focused lighting or directed lighting, is a specialized form of illumination designed to enhance visibility for specific activities like reading, writing, or computer work. This accommodation helps reduce eye strain and improve concentration by providing adjustable, localized light exactly where it is needed. Often used in office environments, task lighting supports individuals with visual impairments, attention difficulties, or sensitivity to glare by offering customizable brightness and positioning. By improving clarity and reducing shadows, task lighting creates a comfortable and accessible workspace that promotes productivity and reduces fatigue throughout the workday.

Who Benefits

People with low vision or light sensitivity who need clearer, brighter work areas.
Anyone who struggles to see details or experiences eye fatigue during focused tasks.

How to Use Task Lighting Effectively

Position the task light so it shines directly on your work area without creating glare or shadows. Choose adjustable lamps with dimming features to tailor brightness to your needs. Regularly clean the light source and replace bulbs to maintain optimal illumination. For computer work, place the light to the side to avoid screen reflections. Experiment with angles and intensity to find the most comfortable setup that reduces eye strain and improves focus throughout the day.

Key Considerations

Task lighting options vary widely in price, from affordable desk lamps to higher-end adjustable LED models; consider budget and durability.
Works well in both remote and in-office settings, adaptable to different desk layouts and lighting conditions.
Complies with workplace safety guidelines by minimizing glare and electrical hazards; check for UL or equivalent certifications.

Disclo Makes Implementation Simple

Disclo streamlines requests, documentation, and tracking for Task Lighting, so HR teams and employees spend less time on paperwork and more time working productively.