Dealing with the sun properly in the office

One thing is certain: good daylight and large office spaces with workplaces close to windows are important, also for the natural bio-rhythm of humans. However, workplaces close to windows also have disadvantages. The sunlight can be blinding and the eyes have to strain more with reflective light. This can be particularly noticeable on computer screens. The German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) summarizes some useful tips on how to avoid heat and glare at the workplace.

1. The correct position of the workplace: The closer you are to a window with your desk, the more likely you are to be blinded by the sun. However, a desk should also not be too far from the window. Workstations should also be positioned so that employees can see parallel to the window.
2. The technical glare protection: The different daylight conditions can be regulated by effective glare protection mechanisms. Window blinds and curtains should therefore always be easily accessible for all employees.
3. The right glazing: The type of window glazing reduces the thermal load. Solar control glazing can let in as much light as possible while keeping heat low and acts as an additional glare shield.
4. Antireflection screens: Directly incident light affects the contrasts of the screens and can cause strong glare. The contrasts and the screen background are greatly reduced as a result. In most cases, it is then hardly possible to see anything on the monitor. Those responsible for operations should therefore procure anti-reflective displays wherever possible in order to specifically counteract the dazzling effects. The anti-reflective coating can usually be found in the hardware's data sheets.

Source: DGUV/Editorial Office