What is full-spectrum lighting? Simply put, full-spectrum light is light that covers the electromagnetic spectrum from infrared to near-ultraviolet, or all wavelengths that are useful to plant or animal life. Light bulbs labeled as full-spectrum attempt to replicate the wide frequencies which make up natural sunlight In the modern world, people spend on average about 90% of their lifetime indoors – often away from natural daylight. As a result, many people develop pale skin, poor immune function, lowered concentration ability, increased irritability, disturbed circadian rhythms, and depression.

In a Russian machine factory, employees were divided into two groups. One group worked under standard fluorescent lighting and the other group under full-spectrum fluorescent lighting. After a period of five months, the employees with the full-spectrum lighting including UV radiation not only appeared much healthier, but sick leave days had been reduced by half and the number of leucocytes had substantially increased.

To learn about the effects of various types of artificial lighting, types of light fixtures, light therapy, lighting design, etc., check out IBE 204.5 – Light & Lighting.

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