Lighting is a crucial component of any prison, and it plays a critical role in maintaining safety and security for inmates and staff. There are several common issues that need to be taken into consideration, from safety, wellness of inmates & staff, to energy efficiency, consider the following.

Safety is the top priority. The lighting design must be created in such a way that it does not create opportunities for self-harm or violence. This includes providing fixtures that cannot be used as weapons, or that do not allow inmates to conceal themselves in shadows. The right lighting can also help to prevent falls and other accidents, improving the overall safety of the facility.

Prison lighting fixtures must be designed to withstand heavy use and potentially extreme vandalism. They should be tamper-proof, impact-resilient, non-flammable and built to last. Ensuring they do not become a safety hazard if they are damaged or destroyed, and they need minimal maintenance.

This is important not only for sustainability but also for reducing operating costs. LED lighting is the preferred choice in many prisons due to its long lifespan and low energy consumption. LED lights also generate less heat, which can reduce air conditioning needs, further saving energy.

Lighting should be controllable in each area, allowing for different lighting levels and schedules depending on the specific needs of each space. This can help to save energy and ensure that the facility runs smoothly. Additionally, having lighting control enables staff to make quick changes to lighting if an emergency arises.

We are increasingly recognising how the wave length of lighting affects our mood and our circaidian rhythm. It is proven that some people have violent reactions to certain wavelengths of light. By providing well balanced, blue depleted LED chip sets in your prison lighting you can enhance the ambiance of a cell, reduce prisoner fatigue and in some cases eradicate violent behavioural tendencies. The right colour of light can make the world of difference.

Finally, maintenance is an essential consideration. The fixtures must be easy to access and maintain, and replacements should be readily available to minimize downtime in case of damage or failure. This can be challenging due to security concerns, which require all fixtures and bulbs to be accounted for. However, easy-to-maintain lighting fixtures can reduce costs and downtime in the long run.

In conclusion, selecting lighting for prisons requires careful consideration of many factors, including safety, colour of light, durability, energy efficiency, control, and maintenance. By keeping these factors in mind, you can select lighting fixtures that improve the overall safety, security, and sustainability of your jail.