Classroom Lighting - Trends in this application are aimed at glare reduction due to the number of computers being used in the classroom, daylight harvesting, and perimeter lighting for the blackboard area, and highlighting the front of the class. Each state has slight variations to the minimum level of foot candles required for classroom lighting but a general rule is a minimum of 30 fc Of course, higher light levels can be used. The guideline for power limits in classroom space is approximately 1.6 watts per square foot (per ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1P 1999 Draft).

Many universities are installing motion sensors and lighting controls in their classrooms that automatically turn out the lights after a period of inactivity, and turn them on when someone enters.

Daylight Harvesting is a popular trend in classroom lighting as it utilizes the outdoor sunlight and photosensors that vary the level of light output inside the classroom. Variable dimming ballasts (as well as 2 and 3 step dimming) allow the light output to adjust to meet the indoor classroom needs while sun is shining. Studies have shown that high levels of natural light in classroom settings can increase test scores as well as general atmosphere. Higher CRI fluorescent lamps (SPX w/ 86 CRI) make a nice complement to this strategy. The trend for color temperature for classroom lighting is 3500K and 4100K for cooler cleaner looks. The general trend is to alleviate the cave-like feeling of older institutions.

Glare reduction is another CTQ ("Critical To Quality" criterion) for most new and retrofit school classroom designers. Due to the number of computers being added and used in classroom settings, lighting fixtures with T5's and indirect/direct light output, or semi-specular or white louvers or visible reflectors..

Lighting in school corridors and stairwells are also changing with energy saving trends. Occupancy sensors and fluorescent lamps with Accustart ballasts offer a cost saving, and longer life alternative for these and other areas (restrooms, storage areas, etc.)

School safety concerns can be addressed by using Cov-R-Gard lamps in cafeterias and other rough service areas. Long life, energy savings and shatter resistance can meet the goals for safety and labor savings.

Gymnasium Lighting in schools and universities has always been a source of disruption and high labor costs. High lumen maintenance, long life, energy savings and group relamping can all serve to alleviate these concerns. This area is a good fit for PulseArc and StayBright lamps for new and retrofit school gymnasiums. Whiter light offered by metal halide also improves the atmosphere from High pressure sodium lamps occasionally used, and the sustained light output may help to reduce the number of fixtures in the design and therefore energy consumption.

Outdoor Lighting for schools and universities is often overlooked as a key area of good lighting design. Personal safety and vandalism concerns can be addressed by providing thorough but cost effective outdoor area lighting. Long life Stand-by XL high pressure sodium lamps can help to reduce labor costs as well as energy consumption while providing light to large parking areas and building entryways. Metal Halide lamps also provide whiter light for more frequent traffic areas (university campuses) while offering a higher feeling of safety. Certainly nighttime outdoor lighting is a hot button on college campuses, where class instruction can go deep into the evening hours. Safety and Security lighting are important issues to College Deans trying to attract students to a "Safe University".

University Dormitories pose a complex lighting design story. Multiple activities in a small space must be accommodate and still provide home-like atmosphere. Good color rendering, increased general light levels, reduced glare, safety, and energy savings are all requirements for these small areas. Compact fluorescent lamps in Torchiere fixtures provide good general lighting in conjunction with desk area task lighting can direct the right light levels for vertical and horizontal surfaces. High heat burning lamps like halogen torchieres have been banned from many college dormitories due to past fires and safety issues. Overall light levels can be increased, cooler burning fixtures and energy reduction-for areas where the residents don't see the monthly electric bill, this is a good story for facility managers. Corridors, stairwells and general areas are also good applications for Genura lamps in recessed cans and energy saving T8's with electronic ballasts.

There are a lot of similarities in this segment to general office lighting, but differences do occur. For example, there are a lot of comments about fluorescent lighting in schools causing behavioral problem, possibly due to flicker. Suggesting the use of high frequency electronic ballast, with an upgrade to T8 Starcoat lamps certainly would eliminate the flicker associated with many of these claims. Also some studies have indicated better performance with higher color temperature (daylight) lamps. Many of these claims still need to be substantiated but it is possible the person you are talking to might have heard anecdotal reports about various effects.