Lighting Assessment in the Hospital: An Observational Study in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Background and objectives: Proper lighting in hospitals is essential for patient care and operational efficiency. This study assessed lighting compliance in a tertiary care hospital, considering both objective measurements and subjective evaluations.

Methods: This observational study was conducted in various hospital departments, including operating theatre, intensive care unit (ICU), accident and emergency (A&E), and wards. Two methods were used: illuminance measurement with a lux meter and checklist-based compliance assessment. Results were compared to national standards (Bureau of Indian Standards, SP 72).

Results: The study found that over 90% of areas had lighting below the recommended standards. Operating theatre compliance was 20%, ICU compliance was 18%, and A&E had 0%. Compliance based on checklist assessment was highest in operating theatres (54%) and lowest in acute medical wards (12.5%).

Conclusions: The study revealed significant gaps in hospital lighting compliance. The study suggests optimizing lighting placement and types (eg, light emitting diode (LEDs)) and incorporating lighting standards into hospital accreditation guidelines.

Keywords: compliance; energy efficiency; health care environment; hospital lighting; illuminance; patient care.