The short answer
Warehouse lighting should match the task. BS EN 12464-1:2021 gives examples of 100 lux for stores, 150 lux at the floor of rack storage, 200 lux for open storage and loading, and 300 lux for packing. LED high bays with the right optics and aisle-by-aisle sensors are the usual way to achieve this efficiently.
Lux levels by area
| Area | Example maintained illuminance |
|---|---|
| Stores and stockrooms | 100 lux |
| Rack storage (at floor level) | 150 lux |
| Open storage, loading and unloading | 200 lux |
| Packing and grouping | 300 lux |
Apply the standard's task and context adjustments for your operation.
Choosing fittings
- Narrow-beam linear fittings suit high racking aisles.
- Round high bays with wider optics suit open floor areas.
- Check mounting height, glare and the light reaching rack faces.
- Specify dimmable drivers if you plan to add sensors.
Sensors and savings
Aisle-by-aisle presence sensing can dim or switch off empty aisles, and daylight sensing can hold lights low under roof lights. Replacing metal halide with LED often cuts lighting load by 50–70% before controls.
Questions
Should high bays dim or switch off when aisles are empty?
Dimming to a low background level is usually preferred in warehouses, so aisles never go fully dark when someone looks down them.
Related services
Warehouse lighting
LED high bays and aisle lighting for warehouses and distribution sites.
LED high bay lighting
High bays for factories, workshops, sports halls and tall spaces.
Lighting controls
Presence detection, daylight dimming and DALI systems.
Floodlighting
LED floodlights for yards, loading areas, compounds and sites.
Last reviewed 9 November 2026. This guide is general information, not legal, tax or engineering advice for a specific site.