Control rooms are mission-critical environments where good task lighting can help reduce errors. Operators rely on technology and data analysis to make real-time crucial decisions. They may spend long hours at their desk, and a quality lamp helps create a comfortable workspace. Task lights help prevent fatigue and improve productivity and focus.

This guide will explore the importance of task lighting in control rooms and what to consider when choosing lighting. We'll also look at some of the best task lights on the market.

What is a task light?

A task light provides focused illumination for specific tasks or activities. It often has features like adjustable arms, swivel heads, and variable light intensity. These allow users to direct the light precisely where needed. Task lighting is essential in workplaces like control rooms where users must stay focused for long periods of time.

Why is control room task lighting important?

Control rooms often have dim lighting to give operators a good view of the video wall. In these environments, task lighting at control room desks is essential so operators can see their equipment.

Task lighting in control rooms is of a higher specification than ordinary desk lamps. It is usually also integrated into the console's design. For example, a task lamp may attach to the monitor arm, so you don't have to place it on the desktop. This stops it from getting in the way of vital equipment.

The task lighting must also be ergonomic. It should be easy to adjust with good flexibility and rotation. Control rooms are 24/7 environments, and the light is likely to be in constant use. Therefore, the task lamps must be built from durable materials and be long-lasting.

You should be able to adjust the light levels of your task lamp. Light intensity can affect levels of alertness during night shifts, so the lamps must have high lumen output without too much glare. Operators may want to increase the brightness of their lamps towards the end of their shift to help prevent fatigue from setting in. Everyone differs in the light level they find comfortable. Task lighting with adjustable light levels helps you personalise your workspace. This is good for comfort and ergonomics.

Energy efficiency is also an essential factor to consider. Control rooms often operate around the clock. Choosing energy-efficient lighting options helps reduce operational costs and environmental impact.

Which task lights are best for control room work?

1. Humanscale Nova

This LED lamp has glare-free light that you can adjust exactly to your preference. The lamp's arm rotates 180 degrees, allowing excellent flexibility, which is great for ergonomics. You can easily adjust it with one hand. 'Forever hinges' ensure that once you've angled the lamp to your preference, it stays firmly in place. Touch dimming control allows you to adjust luminosity to your ideal level.

It has been awarded US Energy Star ® certification for energy efficiency. The Nova has the highest energy efficiency chip on the market - 7 Watts deliver a powerful 440 lumens of light. Smart dimming technology automatically turns off the light when no movement is detected, saving energy.

The Nova is a very durable lamp. It is guaranteed to last 50,000 hours and is backed by a 10-year warranty.

2. Humanscale Element 790

The Element 790 is another highly flexible lamp with 360 degrees of adjustability. You can easily rotate and position it to your exact requirements.

It's energy-efficient, delivering the equivalent of light from a 90W incandescent bulb using less than 7W of power. The latest LED technology produces a large footprint of neutral light (3500K) and superb colour quality (CRI 85).

The Element 790 is dimmable, so that you can adjust its brightness to your preference. It has an internal counterbalance that allows you to position it with one touch. This makes it very ergonomic and easy to use.

It comes in a variety of finishes, so you can tailor it to your work environment. There are also 20 different mounting options.

3. Artemide Tolomeo Table

The Tolomeo lamp is an Italian design icon. It was developed in the 1980s by Michele De Lucchi and Giancarlo Fassina. This lamp is now available in various formats with the same elegant, timeless style that has made it so popular over the decades.

It has a solid, durable construction and comes in a range of sizes and different specifications. It is available in polished aluminium, black or white. The arm is articulated and fully adjustable.

Tolomeo lamps are available with dimmer control and a wide range of luminosity. Some models have movement detection, automatically switching the lamp off if no one is around.

4. Serious Lights 69230RLDIM

For nearly 50 years, Serious Lights has developed quality lamps for the toughest conditions on earth and beyond. Their task lights have travelled deep under the ocean in nuclear submarines and into space with the space programme. They are used every day to save and improve lives.

Serious Lights design control room lamps that aid productivity and precision at work. The lamps project a focused beam exactly where you need it. They are manufactured with durable materials and have flexible arms that you can adjust precisely. The red lens makes detail easy to see no matter what time of day. They also conveniently fix to the desk.

5. Native Lighting Task Lamp XL

This lamp is ideal for the 24/7 control room environment. It simulates daylight with a colour temperature of 5,500K. The shade can be adjusted vertically, horizontally or laterally to ensure you get the light exactly where you need it.

It has a five-step dimmer and an auto mode. It can automatically adjust the brightness of light needed depending on your working conditions. The lamp fixes to a flat surface with a clamp, so it won't take up much space on your workstation.

The 80cm shade ensures light is spread across a wide area. The lamp's adjustable head lets you shine light exactly where you need it. It features a smart memory, so the lamp always remembers your previous settings.

Looking to upgrade your control room lighting? At Technology Desking we supply a wide range of task lamps. Get in touch to find out more!