Advances in lighting technology are presenting accessibility problems for some people because of the possible impact on conditions arising from neurodivergence
Awareness of the issues may be relatively recent, but it is increasing, as is recognition that the impact on people who are living with certain conditions can be extremely severe.
Research shared by the Lighting Industry Association (LIA) is based on the starting point that every neurodivergent individual experiences a unique set of symptoms and challenges which can include difficulty focusing, sensory sensitivity, attention regulation, time blindness, and fidgeting.
It adds that triggers for these vary widely and may include lighting, noise and temperature. These can also lead to physical reactions such as migraines and physical discomfort. One case study we’ve been working on involves an individual who has epilepsy and who experienced seizures after being affected by changes to the lighting system in their workplace.
Neurodivergence and lighting awareness
An estimated 20% of the UK population is neurodivergent, and the LIA reports that the issues around lighting for neurodivergence are slowly gaining attention and becoming more widely discussed.
Recent headlines in some media cited the twice-yearly clock changes as problematic because of the way they disrupt the body’s circadian rhythms – the 24-hour cycle that regulates sleep, alertness, hormone production, and other biological processes.
The LIA notes that proper circadian alignment is strongly influenced by natural lighting and temperature and is linked to a lower risk of metabolic disorders, cardiovascular issues, and depression. However, artificial lighting in offices, schools, hotels, and homes can easily disrupt the rhythm.
The benefits of artificial lighting
Recognising that neurodivergence is not a disability, but rather a different way of thinking and processing information, the LIA reports that artificial lighting can be used to benefit neurodivergent and neurotypical people.
Key focus areas include colour temperature, with cooler light during the day helping to boost alertness and warmer light in the evening helping relaxation. The level of light also helps – brighter in the day and dimmer later on.
Effective timing and controls can be used to create an environment which follows the natural arc of the day. Attention to lighting placement and distribution helps to ensure the light shines where you want it to and not where you don’t.
A correct approach can help to reduce the risk of lighting causing sensory overload and thereby making it difficult for neurodivergent people to process information, prioritise, and focus.
The LIA says it can also help neurotypical people with performance optimisation and health maintenance by increasing alertness during dips in the afternoon, offsetting low mood and fatigue and improving the general atmosphere to create a more inviting space.
Workplace adjustments for epilepsy: LED lighting systems
Our case study arose from a discussion of potential workplace adjustments for epilepsy triggered by a new LED lighting system, with the low frequency triggering a seizure and recurring problems forcing the person concerned to leave the workplace and take on a different role.
Potential adjustments which were discussed included installing diffusing sheets in the area where the problems arose and then extending them across all the lighting, making life easier for the individual and for others who had reported problems with the new lighting, such as headaches.
Our approach is to assess lighting features within the built environment in the same way as we would check the more obvious obstacles, such as steps and ramps and the dimensions of doorways and corridors.
The owners and operators of buildings should do the same, as indeed they are in the case which we’ve been working on. And as with other obstacles, they should try to anticipate any potential problems, including with other sensory features.
Visual problems can arise from the use of certain patterns in furnishings and décor. In addition, some hotels use diffusers to pump out certain smells in areas of the building, and it’s possible that these could create issues for some people.
Loud noise, including music, can also create difficulties, and some people might also struggle with certain types of materials, textiles and textures.
Taking an individualised and inclusive approach to accessibility
These things can be very specific to an individual, so it’s important not to generalise, but it may be wise to err on the side of caution. It’s also wise to anticipate what sort of problems might arise from making changes to a working environment, because the costs of replacing unsuitable features can soon mount up.
And it’s always worth remembering that addressing the accessibility problems experienced by a minority of people can also bring huge benefits for the wider majority.
