Task lighting

The most important purpose of task lighting in the office is not increasing illuminance, but improving contrast.

Having proper lighting when working with sharp knives is a critical component of injury prevention.

Another form of fixed task lighting may simply be a table lamp positioned over one's reading chair.

A freely adjustable lamp may include means for glare control, as a honeycomb or parabolic louvre that restricts the light output angle.

It is hard to overstate the benefits of having focused light alongside magnification for small, precise operations such as model building, sewing, or other high-detail activities.

The luminaire directs the light obliquely over the desk, with the highest illuminance typically about 1' to 1½' to the side of the lamp head.

Many people benefit from dedicated lighting for specific tasks such as cooking, sewing, reading, or paperwork.

For older persons, increased lighting and contrast is a necessary aid to performing daily tasks such as paying bills or reading.