3 Types of Office Lights (And When to Seek Electrical Assistance)
Key Takeaways:
- The office lights in your workplace play a major role in determining the comfort, safety, and productivity of your employees.
- Different lighting types serve different purposes, so it is important to install them in the right places.
- Knowing when to engage an electrician ensures that your lighting setup is safe, compliant, and serves its intended purpose.
Choosing the right office lights for your workplace is more than just a matter of design. In various work environments, such as commercial buildings and co-working spaces, adopting an effective workplace lighting design can contribute directly to productivity, mood, and even energy costs. As businesses modernise, there is a greater demand for efficient, smart, and compliant lighting setups. Whether you are renovating an office or upgrading outdated fixtures, understanding your lighting options and knowing when to seek professional help can make the entire process smoother.
With that in mind, here are the three main types of office lights, as well as when you may need a licensed electrical contractor to do the job.
1. Ambient Lighting (General Lighting)
Ambient lighting provides the main source of illumination in most office spaces. It ensures visibility across the entire area, allowing people to navigate safely and work comfortably.
Common Fixtures: Recessed ceiling lights, LED panel lights, and traditional fluorescent tube lights.
Best For: Open-plan offices, reception areas, corridors, and meeting zones.
In Singapore, commercial lighting installation typically uses energy-efficient LEDs as a baseline. However, problems can arise when too many high-wattage fixtures are added to one circuit, especially in older buildings with limited electrical capacity. If your office lights flicker when appliances are turned on or circuit breakers trip frequently, it may be time to consult a qualified electrical contractor who can assess the load and upgrade your circuits or distribution board where needed.
2. Task Lighting
Task lighting supports activities that require tremendous focus, such as reading, typing, drawing, or detailed inspection work. It provides additional brightness to prevent eye strain and improve concentration.
Common Fixtures: Desk lamps, under-cabinet LEDs, and adjustable swing-arm lights.
Best For: Workstations, design studios, private offices, and meeting rooms.
While these office lights may seem like simple plug-and-play devices, integrating them properly into your office setup often requires additional electrical planning. For instance, under-desk power points need to be safely wired and grounded. Additionally, loose or exposed wiring can pose risks, especially in shared work environments. This is where you may need light installation services done by a licensed electrician who can help position task lights in a way that avoids cable clutter and enhances safety.
3. Smart Lighting Systems
Smart lighting is a great way to enhance office illumination. These systems can be automated, controlled remotely, or integrated with motion sensors and daylight sensors to reduce energy consumption and support flexible working hours.
Common Features: App-controlled dimming, motion detection, and scheduled lighting based on occupancy.
Best For: Offices focused on sustainability, tech startups, and modern co-working spaces.
Installing smart systems often requires a professional to carry out as it is a complex process that involves additional wiring, specialised control panels, or integration with the building’s BMS (Building Management System). It is therefore advisable to hire a certified electrical contractor or an M&E professional experienced in cabling installations. They can ensure that your automation setup complies with Singapore’s electrical codes and works seamlessly with your existing infrastructure.
When Should You Get Electrical Assistance?
Not every lighting upgrade is a DIY project. Here are some situations where you should engage a professional:
- Replacing multiple fixtures during a major commercial lighting installation
- Setting up new lighting points in areas with false ceilings or concrete structures
- Troubleshooting flickering office lights or inconsistent lighting brightness
- Implementing smart systems or sensor-based lighting for energy efficiency
- Adding or relocating power points to support modern office lighting solutions
By hiring a licensed electrician, you reduce the risk of electrical hazards and ensure that your installation meets regulatory standards in Singapore. Professional help also means cleaner cable management, fewer disruptions to daily operations, and a lighting setup that lasts.
In modern workspaces, good lighting is more than a visual necessity; it is also a tool for better performance, well-being, and efficiency. Whether you are upgrading ambient lighting, enhancing task visibility, or embracing smart technology, proper planning remains a vital part of the process. Additionally, knowing when to bring in a professional can save you time, money, and future repairs.
At 81 Electrical, we can help set up light installations that are tailored to your office and commercial needs. Our team offers end-to-end support, from design to installation, helping businesses create functional and aesthetically pleasing lighting setups. We also provide general electrical services, ensuring that your power and lighting systems work hand in hand.
To learn more about our services, please contact us today.
