On October 3, 2019, the International Commission on Illumination issued the second edition of its position statement on non-visual effects of light, focusing on recommending the proper light at the proper time.
The statement confirms the non-visual effects of light while acknowledging that recommending the proper light at the proper time “remains a key question for many people.”
CIE stated it “recognizes that spending adequate time outdoors during the day is associated with better health and well-being, and that exposure to natural light is a significant causal component in these effects. CIE also recommends not to unnecessarily restrict daylight within indoor settings.”
Further, the organization stated:
Specifications in terms of melanopic EDI are a reasonable route to provide initial guidance on how to manipulate the human (polychromatic) lighting environment in typical everyday life for non-visual responses in people with a regular, day-active schedule (as long as these specifications are not compromising visual comfort and visual performance):
- A high melanopic EDI during the day is usually supportive for alertness, the circadian rhythm and a good night’s sleep.
- A low melanopic EDI in the evening and at night facilitates sleep initiation and consolidation.
Suitable light patterns for night-shift workers are more complex, as they depend on the specific schedule.
CIE is currently working on providing guidance that is based on scientific evidence and consensus. The latest major effort was an August 2019 workshop, which will result in a consensus publication summarizing its discussion about how insights in the field can be translated into guidelines for a healthy daily pattern of light exposure.
Click here to read the CIE position statement.
