Daylighting in Health Care
daylighting May 2, 2009
In a healthcare setting its important to make sure patients and staff have access to natural light. Natural light and views improve mood and reduce stress.
Among a variety of positive effects, natural light improves the mood of depressed patients, decreases staff errors, and reduces the amount of pain medications spinal surgery patients need. This is according to a study by the Center for Health Design.
Of course, daylighting also positively impacts energy consumption by providing free lighting and minimizing heat generated from artificial lights.
In facilities with large floor plates, such as hospitals, ensuring access to natural light has to be made a priority in the design process. For example, through modeling an optimal orientation for the building on its site to maximize exposure to daylight can be achieved.
Next
Read next on FacilitiesNet
