Design Rules💡 Lighting Levels

Lux Level — Drawing / Design Work

For technical drawing, design, and detailed visual tasks
See also📖 NBC 2016🔗 IS 3646🧮 RCC Design📒 Handbook
750 - 1000
lux
750-1000luxDRAWING / DESIGN — LUX LEVEL
Primary value750 - 1000 lux
Applies toArchitectural drawing offices · Engineering design rooms · Detailed inspection workstations
ExceptionsFine inspection / colour matching1000-1500 lux
Measured asAverage maintained illuminance on the working surface.
SourceNBC 2016Part 8, Section 1, Table 1
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Why this matters

Drawing and design work involves fine line discrimination, colour judgement, and prolonged visual concentration. The 750-1000 lux range prevents eye strain and supports accurate work over an 8-hour day.

Typical practice

Architectural studios and design offices use task lighting (drafting lamps) over each workstation in addition to ambient ceiling lighting to reach the 750+ lux target.

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