TS11 Simulation of the Non-Visual Effects of Daylight

CIBSE Technical Symposium, DeMontfort University, Leicester UK
6th and 7th September 2011

The primary concern in the daylighting of buildings has generally been to provide illumination for task, e.g. 500 lux on the horizontal work plane. In the last few decades however there has been a gradual increase in awareness of the non-visual effects of daylight/light received by the eye. In addition to subjective preferences for daylit spaces, it is now firmly established that the light has measurable biochemical effects on the human body, in particular with respect to maintaining a healthy sleep - wake cycle. Could the quality and nature of the internal daylit environment have a significant effect on the health of the human body which can proven through the measurement of, say, hormone levels? Evidence is indeed emerging of links between daylight exposure and both health and productivity.
The daylight design of building spaces for non-visual effects could have major implications for education, healthcare and residential buildings where occupants can remain in fixed positions for extended periods.