Factory and Warehouse Lighting: Lux Levels, Luminaires and IP Ratings
Short answer
In factory lighting the target illuminance depends on the precision of the task: about 300 lux for rough assembly, 500 lux for medium precision and 750 lux for fine work; 100 lux in warehouses and storage areas. IP65 or higher luminaires are chosen in dusty and damp environments and IP66–IP67 where washing takes place; a colour temperature of 4000K–5000K supports alertness.
In a production area, light is a matter of safety and quality: insufficient illuminance increases errors and accidents, and uncontrolled glare tires operators. Because factories are large and run for long hours, lighting is also a significant item on the energy bill.
Target illuminance by task
| Area / task | Illuminance (lx) | UGR | Ra |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rough assembly | 300 | ≤ 25 | 80 |
| Medium-precision assembly | 500 | ≤ 22 | 80 |
| Fine assembly | 750 | ≤ 19 | 80 |
| Precision work, quality control | 1000 | ≤ 16 | 80 |
| Dispatch, packing | 300 | ≤ 25 | 60 |
| Warehouse, storage | 100 | ≤ 25 | 60 |
The values in the table are typical targets from EN 12464-1; in a project, the table in the current edition of the standard and the specific conditions of the space should be used.
Choosing luminaires for high ceilings
The higher the ceiling, the harder it is for light to reach the working plane. That is why high-flux luminaires with narrow or medium distribution that concentrate light downwards are used under high ceilings (usually 6 metres and above), and linear luminaires with wide distribution under lower ceilings. In racking aisles, a distribution that stretches light along the aisle also makes labels on the upper levels of the racks readable.
IP rating by environment
| Environment | Recommended IP |
|---|---|
| Dry, clean assembly area | IP20–IP40 |
| Dusty production (shavings, flour, cement) | IP65 |
| Damp areas with condensation | IP65 |
| Pressure washing (food production) | IP66–IP67 |
Colour temperature and colour rendering
In production areas, neutral and cool white light of 4000K–5000K supports alertness. For tasks that require colour discrimination (painting, textiles, quality control), CRI 90 or higher should be chosen; CRI 80 is sufficient for general production.
Energy savings
- High-efficacy luminaires: lower installed power for the same illuminance.
- Sensor dimming in roof and façade zones that receive daylight.
- Presence sensors in warehouse aisles: a low level while the aisle is not in use.
- Scheduling according to shift plans and zone control with DALI.
Do not forget emergency lighting
Production areas are counted among high-risk areas; emergency lighting must be planned for escape routes and around hazardous machinery. For details, see our emergency lighting maintenance guide.
Conclusion
The right result in factory lighting combines target illuminance by task, an IP rating suited to the environment and the right light distribution for the ceiling height. If you would like us to prepare a calculation and layout plan for your facility, take a look at our lighting design service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many lux should a factory have?
It depends on the precision of the work: about 300 lux for rough assembly, 500 lux for medium, 750 lux for fine assembly and 1000 lux for precision work. 100 lux is typical in warehouses and storage areas.
Which IP rating should be chosen for factory lighting?
IP20–IP40 may be enough in dry, clean production areas; IP65 is recommended in dusty environments and IP66–IP67 in areas with pressure washing.
Which luminaire is used in a high-ceiling warehouse?
High-flux industrial luminaires with narrow or medium light distribution; in racking aisles, models with a long, narrow distribution that spreads light along the aisle are preferred.