London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972

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Islington 1965

[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Islington Borough]

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In shops the public areas were usually better lighted than the rear stock rooms,
and warehouses generally are only partially lighted.
Staircases are often poorly lit, particularly in multi-occupied old office
blocks.
Artificial lighting is often not provided in sanitary accommodation, particularly
in external water closet accommodation.
2. Many premises are still lit by shaded filament bulbs which give a most
unsatisfactory light and a very local one. Old offices, the rear of shops and warehouses
are the main culprits.
In warehouses one or two filament bulbs were often expected to provide adequate
lighting throughout the premises whereas in fact, parts of the premises were very dark
In parts of shop premises away from public view windows have often been dirty or
obstructed with goods. In stock rooms and warehouses generally the light fitments are
often covered with dust so as to exclude much of the light power.
Some staircases are only lit by one bulb and this is often controlled by one
switch situated at the top or bottom of the staircase. This means that often people
have to ascend or descend the staircase without lighting.
3. In the absence of any prescribed standard no specific standard has been recommended
to occupiers in advice given by the Inspectors.
Requests have been made for lighting, both artificial and natural, to be provided,
or improved. Occupiers have also been asked to repair and maintain existing fittings, to
remove obstructions impeding natural light and to clean windows and various light fittings.
4. The only real instance of excessive glare that has been noted is from unshaded
fluorescent tubes in shops and offices.
This is quite common and in modern premises light colours and gloss surfaces
accentuate the glare.
No scientific standards of assessment have been used but notice has been taken of
staff complaints and the Inspector's personal impression when he has visited the premises.
During November light meter readings were taken at all premises inspected.

(1) Number of office premises where lighting, either natural or artificial, in lumens per square foot, measured at the working surface was:-

Lumens per sq. ft.No. of Offices
(a)less than 512
(b)more than 5 but less than 1046
(c)more than 10 but less than 1545
(d)more than 15 but less than 25130
(e)more than 25136

(2) Standard of lighting in lumens per square foot in the working areas of shops etc..
compared with standard of lighting in selling areas.
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