What is the minimum lighting requirement in administrative areas, dining areas, and for patients' reading lamps?

The minimum lighting requirement in administrative areas, dining areas, and for patients' reading lamps is 30 foot candles. This level of illumination is established to ensure that these spaces are adequately lit for their intended functions. For administrative areas, proper lighting is essential for tasks such as reading, writing, and using computers, all of which require a good degree of visibility. In dining areas, appropriate lighting contributes to a pleasant atmosphere and allows for safe food handling and enjoyment of meals.

For patients' reading lamps, the goal is to provide sufficient light for reading without causing eye strain, promoting comfort and well-being. 30 foot candles strikes a balance, ensuring that these areas are functional and comfortable for individuals using them, while also adhering to safety and care standards expected in medical and administrative settings.

Lower lighting levels may not provide enough illumination for the tasks required in these settings, leading to discomfort or accidents, while excessively high lighting levels could create glare or be overwhelming. Thus, 30 foot candles is the ideal standard for these environments.