How many lux does a workplace need?
BS EN 12464-1:2021 sets maintained illuminance by task. Office work such as reading, writing and screen use is benchmarked at 500 lux on the task area, while stores need around 100 lux and packing areas 300 lux. Emergency escape routes need at least 1 lux across their width under BS EN 1838:2024.
Recommended light levels
| Space | Task or area | Maintained illuminance | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Offices | Writing, reading and data processing | 500 lux | BS EN 12464-1:2021 |
| Circulation | Corridors and circulation areas | 100 lux | BS EN 12464-1 |
| Warehouses | Stores and stockrooms | 100 lux | BS EN 12464-1:2021 |
| Warehouses | Rack storage (at floor level) | 150 lux | BS EN 12464-1:2021 |
| Warehouses | Open storage, loading and unloading | 200 lux | BS EN 12464-1:2021 |
| Warehouses | Packing and grouping | 300 lux | BS EN 12464-1:2021 |
| Education | Classrooms (long-standing table value) | 300 lux, often 500 lux designed for detailed work | BS EN 12464-1 |
| Emergency | Escape routes, across the floor width | at least 1 lux | BS EN 1838:2024 |
The 2021 edition applies task and context modifiers, so the right target can be higher or lower than the table value. We confirm targets on survey.
Lux, lumens and why maintained values matter
Lux measures light falling on a surface, one lumen per square metre. Designs use maintained illuminance: the level the installation must not fall below over its life, allowing for dirt and ageing.
Measuring your light levels
A lux survey takes readings at working height on a grid and compares them with the targets. It is the quickest way to settle complaints about lighting or check a new installation.
Lighting surveys and lux testing · Warehouse lighting guide
Lux FAQs
How many lux for an office?
BS EN 12464-1:2021 benchmarks 500 lux on the task area for reading, writing and screen work.
How many lux for a warehouse?
Examples include 100 lux for stores, 150 lux at the floor of rack storage, 200 lux for open storage and loading, and 300 lux for packing.
What lux level do escape routes need?
At least 1 lux across the width of the escape route under BS EN 1838:2024.