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What Are Types of Anti-Glare Lighting?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Especially in office spaces, the issue of glare from monitors is a major issue. Many workers suffer from eye strain as a result of poorly mapped out lighting systems, as well as headaches. One solution to the issue of glare is to install anti-glare lighting, as well as arranging the lighting in such a way that it minimizes glare. Anti-glare lighting is available at most lighting and hardware stores, and is well worth the investment when one considers worker productivity returns.

Usually, anti-glare lighting is accomplished either by installing a filter over an existing fixture, or by incorporating a special lens into a new fixture. Both are designed to broaden the spectrum of light and to diffuse the light through the workspace, so that a hot spot of light is not created. Anti-glare measures are designed to be easy to install by most manufacturers, and to encourage offices to explore anti-glare solutions.

Glare is a common cause of eye strain and headaches.
Glare is a common cause of eye strain and headaches.

In the case of filters, companies sell anti-glare lighting sleeves or shields which can cover fixtures ranging from fluorescents to smaller desk lamps. Some companies make anti-glare shields which polarize the light, while others break up and distribute the light so that it will not cause spots of glare on computer monitors. Some anti-glare filters also include side shields which can be positioned to block light from striking the face or monitor directly.

Eye strain and headaches may be caused by trying to use a computer screen in poor lighting conditions.
Eye strain and headaches may be caused by trying to use a computer screen in poor lighting conditions.

In the case of specialized anti-glare fixtures, usually the manufacturer incorporates a lens which breaks up or polarizes the light to minimize eye strain. Usually anti-glare fixtures also have a wide range of positions they can be placed in, using adjustable arms to rotate the light. These lights are designed to provide a gentle wash of light over the work area, without a hot spot that may cause eye strain.

Glare can strain the eyes and induce fatigue.
Glare can strain the eyes and induce fatigue.

Usually, manufacturers recommend that consumers use full spectrum light bulbs in tandem with anti-glare lighting. Full spectrum light bulbs provide a gentle wash of ambient light that feels more natural than lighting along a limited spectrum. In addition, consumers should always think carefully when setting up a workspace, making it as ergonomic and easy to work in as possible. Especially for employees who work long hours, a comfortable work space is crucial.

In addition to using anti-glare lighting, take care that task lights to illuminate documents and paperwork are placed to the side of the screen. This will reduce the reflection caused by light bouncing off pale papers, and will also mean that a strong light can be used to read documents without interfering with the computer screen. Use indirect light to illuminate the computer screen, and make sure that workers rest their eyes periodically throughout the work day to limit eye strain. These simple measures will make an immense difference in an office environment.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a TheHealthBoard researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a TheHealthBoard researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

Feryll

The glare from fluorescent lights can cause headaches and eye strain. I had a coworker who assumed the problems he was having were because of the computer screen, but the overhead fluorescent bulbs were causing the problems.

Sporkasia

I have anti-glare lenses in my glasses, my reading glasses and my sunglasses, so I am covered no matter what I am doing. I didn't think the anti-glare lenses would make that much of a difference, but I decided to try them when I bought glasses and I have been pleasantly surprised.

I used to be bothered by glare from car headlights at night. With my new glasses night driving doesn't bother me because I can see much clearer. With the glasses, I don't have to adjust my computer monitor and I don't need an anti-glare monitor. I don't have to move lights around or close blinds. Since getting the glasses, I am no longer bothered by computer eye strain or headaches.

Laotionne

LCD screens for computers do a really good job of reducing the glare from the screen. Bad computer screens or poorly lit computer screens are the main reasons people get eye strain at work or when they are working from their home computers. I have found that I cut down on glare at home by closing the blinds when I am working from the computer.

You can also buy computer hoods that attach to the monitors and reduce glare.

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    • Glare is a common cause of eye strain and headaches.
      By: Voyagerix
      Glare is a common cause of eye strain and headaches.
    • Eye strain and headaches may be caused by trying to use a computer screen in poor lighting conditions.
      By: emde71
      Eye strain and headaches may be caused by trying to use a computer screen in poor lighting conditions.
    • Glare can strain the eyes and induce fatigue.
      By: Kaspars Grinvalds
      Glare can strain the eyes and induce fatigue.