Comparison of SN EN 12464-1 and SN EN 12464-2:2024

comparison of SN EN 12464-1 and SN EN 12464-2:2024SN EN 12464-2:2024 vs EN 1838

The following content provides a comprehensive comparison of SN EN 12464-1 and SN EN 12464-2:2024 to help you determine which set of lighting standards best meets your needs in outdoor workplaces. Understanding their differences is crucial for ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and optimizing visual comfort.

SN EN 12464-2:2024

Licht und Beleuchtung - Beleuchtung von Arbeitsstätten - Teil 2: Arbeitsplätze im Freien

Light and lighting - Lighting of work places - Part 2: Outdoor work places

INB

This document specifies lighting requirements for humans in outdoor work places, which meet the needs for visual comfort and performance of people having normal, or corrected to normal ophthalmic (visual) capacity. Usual visual tasks and the avoidance of obtrusive light are considered. This document specifies requirements for lighting solutions for most outdoor work places and their associated areas in terms of quantity and quality of illumination. In addition, recommendations are given for good lighting practice. This document does not specify lighting requirements with respect to the safety and health of people at work and has not been prepared in the field of application of Article 153 of Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union although the lighting requirements, as specified in this document, usually fulfil safety needs. NOTE Lighting requirements with respect to the safety and health of workers at work can be contained in Directives based on Article 153 of Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, in national legislation of member states implementing these directives or in other national legislation of member states. This document neither provides specific solutions, nor restricts the designers' freedom from exploring new techniques nor restricts the use of innovative equipment. The illumination can be provided by daylight, electric lighting or a combination of both. This document is not applicable for the lighting of indoor work places and underground mining or emergency lighting. For indoor work places, see EN 12464-1 and for emergency lighting, see EN 1838 and EN 13032-3.

Publikation: 2024-12-0158 SeitenICS: 91.160.20

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Why compare SN EN 12464-2:2024 and comparison of SN EN 12464-1 and SN EN 12464-2:2024

The comparison between SN EN 12464-1 and SN EN 12464-2:2024 is essential for professionals involved in workplace design, safety compliance, and lighting technology. Architects, engineers, and safety officers are often faced with the decision of which standard to apply for outdoor environments. This comparison helps clarify the scope, application, and requirements of each standard, enabling informed choices that enhance visual comfort and workplace performance. As outdoor working conditions differ significantly from indoor environments, understanding these distinctions is vital for compliance and optimal design.

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How SN EN 12464-2:2024 approaches the topic

SN EN 12464-2:2024 focuses specifically on the lighting requirements for outdoor workplaces, emphasizing the necessity for visual comfort and performance. This standard outlines essential criteria for quality and quantity of lighting, including recommendations for minimizing glare and optimizing the use of daylight alongside electric lighting. It also integrates safety and health regulations, ensuring that outdoor workspaces are designed to promote the well-being of employees. The standard sets out clear guidelines for lighting design criteria, such as the reflectance of surfaces, to enhance the functionality and safety of outdoor environments. Overall, SN EN 12464-2:2024 aims to create a balanced approach to lighting that caters to the specific needs of outdoor workplaces.

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How comparison of SN EN 12464-1 and SN EN 12464-2:2024 approaches the topic

In contrast, SN EN 12464-1 provides comprehensive guidelines for indoor workplace lighting, addressing visual comfort and performance within enclosed spaces. It establishes a framework for achieving adequate illumination levels, glare avoidance, and color rendering, all tailored to indoor scenarios. While both standards share the objective of enhancing visual comfort and safety, SN EN 12464-1 is not applicable to outdoor settings, which have unique challenges such as varying natural light conditions and different safety considerations. Thus, understanding the differences and applications of these standards is crucial for professionals tasked with creating safe and effective work environments.

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Side-by-side comparison

CriteriaSN EN 12464-1SN EN 12464-2:2024
ScopeIndoor workplacesOutdoor workplaces
AudienceArchitects, interior designersLandscape architects, outdoor engineers
Cost/EffortModerate, with standard materialsHigh, due to environmental factors
Certification MechanismNational and European regulationsNational and European regulations
Typical Use CasesOffices, schools, hospitalsConstruction sites, outdoor events

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When to choose which

  • If you are designing an indoor workspace such as an office or a school, choose SN EN 12464-1 for comprehensive guidelines on indoor lighting.
  • If your project involves outdoor workplaces, such as construction sites or sports fields, opt for SN EN 12464-2:2024 to ensure compliance with safety and visual comfort standards.
  • For any project requiring flexibility in lighting design while prioritizing employee well-being, consider SN EN 12464-2:2024 as it accommodates both daylight and electric lighting solutions.
  • If your work involves integrating lighting systems in complex outdoor environments, SN EN 12464-2:2024 is the appropriate choice, given its focus on glare avoidance and quality lighting practices.

Last updated: April 15, 2026