TAMLITE LIGHTING
LIGHTING: DELIVERING WORKSPACES OF THE FUTURE The benefits of implementing next-generation technologies have long formed a compelling case for an upgrade in workplace lighting. With increasing focus on ensuring such systems are fit for purpose, now and in the future due to the changing face of office occupancy, this presents an opportunity for electrical contractors, says Tamlite Lighting’s Managing Director, John Allden.
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s the pandemic eases and the recovery starts, hybrid working is now widely accepted as the working model of choice. A recent survey by Willis Towers Watson found that 41% of the workforce will embrace splitting their working hours between home and the office, whilst businesses do not anticipate a return to pre-pandemic, full-time working practices, with 85% predicting a return to the workplace for only employees who want to by the end of the year[1]. However, the death of the office should not be exaggerated, and despite a slower ‘return to normal’ than expected, staff still have a strong desire to spend time in the office. This is backed up by the findings of
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research carried out by LifeSearch, which found 36% of those polled would prefer to be in the workplace on a full-time basis[2]. Reflecting this, office occupancy rates are continuing to rise as momentum for returning to the office gathers pace. In the face of the change in working practices, business owners and building managers alike need to prepare for reduced occupancy levels and changes in density ratios. The requirement for flexible buildings and more sophisticated building management places increased demands on core systems such as heating, ventilation, and lighting. Bearing this in mind, it’s arguable that there has never been a better time for building managers to review core building systems and ensure that they are fit for purpose, now and in the future.
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Taking control Whether it is a large office complex or small business studio, lighting remains one of the most fundamental services, given that it can be intrinsically supportive of more variable occupancy levels, supportive of employee wellbeing, and capable of delivering major energy and carbon savings often in return for relatively small investments. From an electrical contractor’s perspective, there is a clear opportunity to talk to customers about how you can help them prepare for the ‘new’ normal, and create comfortable, productive, and safe office environments. The key to achieving this will be investment in the integration of the latest lighting control systems.
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21/10/2021 12:08
