The influence of spectral energy distribution of light sources on visual performance

The author reviews and discusses data available on visual performance as a function of spectral energy distribution. He concludes that the following factors need investigation as to their effect on performance: source bandwidth, blue light percentage, illuminance and luminance levels, and type of task and its relation to spectral response curve. He emphasizes that all sources used for general illumination (as opposed to decorative purposes) should be investigated on the same basis. Investigations to date indicate that differences are not trivial, but can result in performance differences equivalent to as much as ten times in illuminance level.<>