HUMAN-CENTRIC LIGHTING & ACOUSTIC SOLUTIONS DESIGNED FOR WELL™ BUILDINGS
HUMAN-CENTRIC LIGHTING & ACOUSTIC SOLUTIONS DESIGNED FOR WELL™ BUILDINGS
What is WELL™?
ILLUMINATE THE SOUL® WITH HUMAN-CENTRIC LIGHTING AND ACOUSTIC SOLUTIONS.
Established by the International WELL Building Institute™ (IWBI™), the WELL Building Standard™ is a rating-based system serving as a new global benchmark for healthy buildings and communities. According to the IWBI, “the WELL Building Standard™ is the premier standard for buildings, interior spaces and communities seeking to implement, validate and measure features that support and advance human health and wellness.”
ALW is committed to providing the highest quality luminaires for a multitude of applications, with many versatile lighting and acoustic solutions that contribute to satisfying the WELL Building Standard™.
ILLUMINATE THE SOUL™ WITH THE WELLNESS COLLECTION BY ALW
A CURATED SELECTION OF LIGHTING & ACOUSTIC SOLUTIONS FOCUSED ON WELL-BEING
WELL™ at a Glance
WELL Building Standard™ v2
Feature L03 – Circadian Lighting Design
For All Spaces | Optimization | 3 PTS MAX
Objective: The WELL feature L03 requires projects to provide users with appropriate exposure to light for maintaining circadian health and aligning the circadian rhythm with the day-night cycle.
Equivalent Melanopic Lux (EML)
The photopic lux multiplied by a melanopic ratio, EML = LxR. This is essentially a measurement of light’s effect on human circadian rhythm. In general, higher EML light sources (125-250) are specified for daytime activities, while sources with lower EML (>50) are better suited for nocturnal activities. For more information see “Measuring and Using Light in the Melanopsin Age” by Lucas, RJ et al.
Requirements
Electric lighting is used to achieve light levels shown in the table below as measured on the vertical plane at eye level of the occupant. The light levels are achieved at least between the hours of 9 A.M. and 1 P.M. and may be lowered after 8 P.M
Resources
EML Calculator Spreadsheet (provided by the IWBI)
| Electric Light Only | Electric Light and Daylight | Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At least 150 EML [136 melanopic equivalent daylight D65] | or | The project achieves at least 120 EML [109 melanopic equivalent daylight D65] with electric light and at least 2 points in Feature L05: Enhanced Daylight Access. | 1 |
| At least 240 EML [218 melanopic equivalent daylight D65] | or | The project achieves at least 180 EML [163 melanopic equivalent daylight D65] with electric light and at least 2 points in Feature L05: Enhanced Daylight Access. | 3 |
COMPATIBLE PRODUCTS
ALW has partnered with BIOS to provide circadian lighting solutions that both illuminate and inspire. Below are featured products now available with BIOS SkyBlue® Technology, which contribute to satisfying Feature L03. BIOS SkyBlue® is biologically-enhanced light engine, featuring high melanopic/photopic (M/P) ratios to achieve the desired EML levels without harsh light levels or CCTs. Learn more about BIOS + ALW and available products here.
Feature L04 – Glare Control
For All Spaces | Optimization | 3 PTS MAX
Objective: The WELL feature L04 Glare Control requires projects to manage glare by using a combination of strategies such as calculating of glare, choosing appropriate light fixtures for the space and using shading techniques. Space planning and lighting design can minimize the amount of glare experienced by individuals in the space. For electric lighting, the light source, type of luminaires used and lighting layout can lead to reduced glare.
OVERVIEW
Requirements: Each luminaire meets one of the following requirements for regularly occupied spaces. Wall wash fixtures properly aimed at walls, as specified by manufacturer’s data, as well as decorative fixtures may be excluded from meeting these requirements:
- 100% of light is emitted above the horizontal plane (i.e. indirect lamping only)
- Unified Glare Rating (UGR) values are met as per the below conditions:
- Luminaires installed at a height of 5m (16ft.) or lower meet UGR of 19 or lower
- Luminaires installed at a height greater than 5m (16ft.) meet UGR of 22 or lower
- Shielding angles are as described in the table at the right
- Fixtures have a luminance of less than 10,000 cd/m2 between 45 and 90 degrees from nadir, and/or an intensity of less than 1,000 candela between 45 and 90 degrees from nadir
| LUMINANCE | SHIELDING ANGLE, α (α = 90 – Cutoff Angle) |
|---|---|
| < 20,000 cd/m2 (Include reflected sources) | No shielding required |
| 20,000 cd/m2 to 50,000 cd/m2 | 15º |
| 50,000 cd/m2 to 500,000 cd/m2 | 20º |
| > 500,000 cd/m2 | 30º |
COMPATIBLE PRODUCTS
A majority of ALW's linear products are available with indirect-only illumination (satisfying the first criteria of this feature). Furthermore, the LightPlane+ and SuperPlane families features highly diffuse ControlRoll Optics, which contribute to satisfying the 2nd and 4th criteria. Further details can be found on the product specification sheets. Click on each product below for more information.
Feature L07 – Electric Light Quality
Objective: The WELL feature L07 Electric Light Quality requires projects to consider characteristics of electric light used in the space such as color rendering, color quality and flicker.
Part 1: Ensure Color Rendering Quality
For All Spaces | Optimization | 3 PTS MAX
Overview
This section pertains to Color Rendering Index. Humans have evolved to depend on the sun as the main and ideal source of light and are tuned to the color rendering provided by daylight and recognize colors in association with daylight. Color can impact peoples’ cognition and behavior. Using electric light with high color rendering can improve people’s perception of a space, while low color rendering can impact the ability to differentiate between objects and perceive the surroundings accurately. Requirements: Electric lighting meets at least one of the following color rendering requirements. (Decorative fixtures, emergency lights and other special-purpose lighting may be excluded from these requirements).
| METRIC | THRESHOLD |
|---|---|
| CRI | CRI > 90 |
| CRI, R9 | CRI > 80 with R9 > 50 |
| IES TM-30-18 | IES Rf ≥ 78, IES Rg ≥ 100, -1% ≤ IES Rcs,h1 ≤ 15% |
Note: CRI = Ra
COMPATIBLE PRODUCTS
A majority of ALW products are available with 90 CRI, meeting the requirements for this feature. In addition, ALW products with BIOS SkyBlue® technology feature 83+ CRI with an R9 > 80, also satisfying this requirement. Learn more about BIOS + ALW and available products here.
Part 2: Manage Flicker
For All Spaces | Optimization | 1 PT MAX
OVERVIEW
This section pertains to Flicker.
Electric lighting used indoors can have low frequencies of flicker that are not present in daylight. Flicker has been associated with eye strain, headaches, migraines and epileptic seizures. Identifying and utilizing lighting fixtures that emit a high quality of light and do not display signs of flicker contributes to a comfortable and healthy space.
Requirements: All electric lights (except decorative lights, emergency lights and other special-purpose lighting) used in regularly occupied spaces meet at least one of the following requirements for flicker:
- A minimum frequency of 90 Hz at all 10% light output intervals from 10% to 100% light output.
- LED products with a "low risk" level of flicker (light modulation) of less than 5%, especially below 90 Hz operation as defined by IEEE standard 1789-2015 LED.
COMPATIBLE PRODUCTS
All ALW products with the following driver selections meet this criteria:
| Driver | Description |
|---|---|
| 0/10V/1% (V01) |
0-10V Dimming to 1% |
| 0/10V/0% (V00) |
0-10V Dimming to 0% |
| DALI (DAL) |
DALI flicker-free dimming to 0% (1% with Lutron Vive) |
| DMX | DMX flicker-free dimming to 0% |
| ECOSYS1 (LDE1) |
Lutron (LDE1) Hi-lume 1% Ecosystem LED driver with Soft-on, Fade-to-Black dimming technology |
Feature S04 – Sound Absorption
Objective: The WELL feature S04 requires steps be taken to address acoustical comfort by assigning requirements for surface finishes and reverberation time depending on the room functionality. Low reverberation times support speech intelligibility and conducive to focus.
Part 1: Meet Thresholds for Reverberation Time
For All Spaces | Optimization | 1 PT MAX
OVERVIEW
Threshold Requirements for Reverberation Time
| ROOM TYPE | SIZE | RT(60) (seconds) |
|---|---|---|
| Conference Rooms | N/A | < 0.6 |
| Classrooms | < 280 m³ [10,000 ft³] | < 0.6 |
| Between 280 m³ [10,000 ft³] and 570m³ [20,000 ft³] | 0.5 to 0.8 | |
| > 570 m³ [20,000 ft³] | 0.6 to 1.0 | |
| Lecture Halls | < 280 m³ [10,000 ft³] | < 0.7 |
| Between 280 m³ [10,000 ft³] and 570m³ [20,000 ft³] | 0.6 to 0.9 | |
| > 570 m³ [20,000 ft³] | 0.7 to 1.3 | |
| Music rehearsal spaces | < 280 m³ [10,000 ft³] | < 1.1 |
| Between 280 m³ [10,000 ft³] and 570m³ [20,000 ft³] | 1.0 to 1.4 | |
| Fitness facilities | < 280 m³ [10,000 ft³] | 0.7 to 0.8 |
| Between 280 m³ [10,000 ft³] and 570m³ [20,000 ft³] | 0.8 to 1.1 | |
| > 570 m³ [20,000 ft³] | 1.0 to 1.8 |
Part 2: Implement Sound Reducing Ceilings
For All Spaces | Optimization | 1 PT MAX
OVERVIEW
Spaces have ceiling finishes that meet the following specifications:
a. Ceiling treatment meets the NRC/ αwMin values described below:
| SPACE TYPE | NRC/ αwMin |
|---|---|
| Open Workspaces Enclosed Offices Dining Spaces |
0.7 for at least 75% of available ceiling area |
| Conference Rooms Classrooms |
0.7 for at least 50% of available ceiling area |
COMPATIBLE PRODUCTS
The Harmonic Collection by ALW features a wide array of acoustic/sound-reducing solutions – including illuminated and non-illuminated luminaires, blades, and discs. All acoustic solutions have an NRC rating of 0.85, which contribute to satisfying this feature.
WELL Building Standard™ v1
Feature 54 - Circadian Lighting Design
Pre-Condition
Objective: To support circadian health by setting a minimum threshold for daytime light intensity.
Background
Light is one of the main drivers of the circadian system, which starts in the brain and regulates physiological rhythms throughout the body's tissues and organs, affecting hormone levels and the sleep-wake cycle. Circadian rhythms are kept in sync by various cues, including light which the body responds to in a way facilitated by intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs): the eyes' non-image-forming photoreceptors. Through ipRGCs, lights of high frequency and intensity promote alertness, while the lack of this stimulus signals the body to reduce energy expenditure and prepare for rest. The biological effects of light on humans can be measured in Equivalent Melanopic Lux (EML), a proposed alternate metric that is weighted to the ipRGCs instead of to the cones, which is the case with traditional lux. During Performance Verification, EML is measured on the vertical plane at eye level of the occupant.
Equivalent Melanopic Lux (EML): The photopic lux multiplied by a melanopic ratio, EML = LxR. This is essentially a measurement of light's effect on human circadian rhythm. In general, higher EML light sources (125-250) are specified for daytime activities, while sources with lower EML (>50) are better suited for nocturnal activities. For more information see "Measuring and Using Light in the Melanopsin Age" by Lucas, RJ et al.
Requirements: Electric lighting is used to achieve light levels shown in the table below as measured on the vertical plane facing forward, 1.2 m [4 ft] above the finished floor (to simulate the view of the occupant). Light level may incorporate daylight, and is present for at least the hours between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM for every day of the year.
Resources: EML Calculator Spreadsheet (provided by the IWBI)
The project meets the following requirements in regularly occupied spaces:
| Part | Location | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Work Areas | ≥ 200 EML (at ≥ 75% of workstations) OR ≥ 150 EML (at 100% of workstations) |
| 2 | Living Environments | Daytime: ≥ 200 EML Nighttime: ≤ 50 EML |
| 3 | Breakrooms | ≥ 250 EML |
| 4 | Learning Areas | ≥ 125 EML (at ≥ 75% of desks) for at least 4hrs/day OR Meet Vertical (Ev) Targets in Table 3 of IES-ANSI RP-3-13 |
COMPATIBLE PRODUCTS
ALW has partnered with BIOS to provide circadian lighting solutions that both illuminate and inspire. Below are featured products now available with BIOS SkyBlue® Technology, which contribute to satisfying Feature L03. BIOS SkyBlue® is biologically-enhanced light engine, featuring high melanopic/photopic (M/P) ratios to achieve the desired EML levels without harsh light levels or CCTs.
Feature 55 – Glare Control
Pre-Condition
Objective: To minimize direct and overhead glare by setting limits on the luminous intensity of luminaires.
BACKGROUND
Light is one of the main drivers of the circadian system, which starts in the brain and regulates physiological rhythms throughout the body’s tissues and organs, affecting hormone levels and the sleep-wake cycle. Circadian rhythms are kept in sync by various cues, including light which the body responds to in a way facilitated by intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs): the eyes’ non-image-forming photoreceptors. Through ipRGCs, lights of high frequency and intensity promote alertness, while the lack of this stimulus signals the body to reduce energy expenditure and prepare for rest. The biological effects of light on humans can be measured in Equivalent Melanopic Lux (EML), a proposed alternate metric that is weighted to the ipRGCs instead of to the cones, which is the case with traditional lux. During Performance Verification, EML is measured on the vertical plane at eye level of the occupant.
Part 1: Luminaire Shielding
| LUMINANCE | SHIELDING ANGLE, α (α = 90 – Cutoff Angle) |
|---|---|
| < 20,000 cd/m2 (Include reflected sources) | No shielding required |
| 20,000 cd/m2 to 50,000 cd/m2 | 15º |
| 50,000 cd/m2 to 500,000 cd/m2 | 20º |
| > 500,000 cd/m2 | 30º |
Part 2: Glare Minimization
At workstations, desks, and other seating areas in regularly occupied spaces, one of the following requirements must be met:
- Luminaires more than 53º above the center of view (degrees above horizontal) have luminances less than 8,000 cd/m2.
- Workstations, desks, and other seating areas achieve a UGR of 19 (or less).
Compatible Products
A majority of ALW’s linear products are available with indirect lamping (satisfying the first criteria of this feature). The SuperPlane family (which features highly diffuse ControlRoll Optics) along with the HBeam 1.25 with spotlights also contribute to satisfying the 2nd and 4th criteria. More details can be found on the product specification sheets. Click on each product below for more information.
Feature 58 – Color Quality
Optimization
Objective: To enhance spatial aesthetics and color differentiation through the use of lamps with quality color rendering abilities.
BACKGROUND
Color quality is a function of the spectral output of a light source, the spectral absorbance/reflectance of an object, and the sensitivity of the eye’s cone photoreceptors to different wavelengths of light, which we perceive as color. Color quality impacts visual appeal and can either contribute to or detract from occupant comfort. Poor color quality can reduce visual acuity and the accurate rendering of illuminated objects.
For instance, foods, human skin tones and plants may appear dull or unsaturated under lights that have low color quality metrics. Color rendering index (CRI) is a common way to measure color quality, capturing R1-R8 metrics. R9, while not always reported, is also included as part of this feature, as R9 values further take into consideration how we perceive the saturation of warmer hues.
Part 1: Color Rendering Index
To accurately portray colors in the space and enhance occupant comfort, all electric lights in occupiable spaces (except decorative fixtures, emergency lights and other special-purpose lighting) meet the following conditions:
- 1. Color Rendering Index Ra (CRI, average of R1 through R8) of 80 or higher
- 2. Color Rendering Index R9 or 50 or higher
Compatible Products
All ALW products are available with 80+ CRI, meeting the requirements for this feature. In addition, ALW products with BIOS SkyBlue® technology feature 83+ CRI with an R9 > 80, also satisfying the requirements for this feature. Learn more about ALW + BIOS here.
Feature 60 – Automated Shading & Dimming Controls
Optimization
Objective: To prevent glare and encourage reliance on natural light through automated shading and dimming.
BACKGROUND
Design features such as adjustable window shades and lights with dimmers must be actively managed to be effective. Automated controls can help to ensure that these systems continually operate as intended and meet intended benefits such as glare avoidance and energy reduction. Furthermore, setting these features to automatically adjust can greatly contribute to comfort without disrupting occupants from other tasks.
Part 2: Responsive Light Control
The following requirements must be met in all major workspace areas:
- 1. All lighting (except decorative fixtures) is programmed using occupancy sensors to automatically dim to 20% or less (or switch off) when the zone is unoccupied.
- 2. All lighting (except decorative fixtures) has the capacity and is programmed to dim continuously in response to daylight.
SOLUTIONS
ALW offers a suite of controls and sensor options, including Lutron EcoSystem (LDE1 & LDE5), Enlighted, eldoLED, NuLEDs, Occupancy Sensors, and Daylight Harvesting. These systems allow the fixture to be dimmed or turned off at various points throughout the day, dependent upon occupancy and amount of daylight within a space – meeting Feature 60 requirements
Feature 78 – Reverberation Time
Optimization
Objective: To help maintain comfortable sound levels by limiting reverberation times.
BACKGROUND
Reverberation time, or RT60, is a metric which describes the length of time taken for a sound to decay by 60 dB from its original level. Optimal reverberation times vary depending on room volume, intended use of the space and the frequency of transmitted sound. In spaces with high reverberation times, the sounds of voices and footsteps take longer to dissipate, contributing to higher levels of ambient noise. The noise produced by reverberation can decrease speech intelligibility and in some situations cause additional stress. This performance specification can be met through the use of sound-absorbing materials on various surface and design elements.
Part 1: Reverberation Time
The following spaces have maximum reverberation time (RT60) as described:
- 1. Conference Rooms: 0.6 seconds
- 2. Open Workspaces: 0.5 seconds
Part 2: Reverberation Time for Learning Spaces
Reverberation time measurements for learning spaces meet the following criteria:
- 1. Spaces less than or equal to 280 m3 [10,000 ft3]: less than 0.6 seconds
- 2. Spaces greater than 280 m3 [10,000 ft3], and equal to or less than 570 m3 [20,000 ft3]: less than 0.7 seconds
COMPATIBLE PRODUCTS
The Harmonic Collection by ALW is a full suite of customizable acoustic solutions, that will contribute to meeting Feature 78. The Harmonic Collection features acoustic material has an NRC rating of 0.85, and is available in 10 standard colors. Available options include linear, rings, blades, and baffles that are both illuminated and non-illuminated.
Feature 80 – Sound Reducing Surfaces
Optimization
Objective:To reduce sound reverberation and maintain comfortable sound levels though absorptive ceiling and wall surfaces.
BACKGROUND
Proper design and construction are not always enough to achieve acoustic comfort in buildings. Sources that contribute to acoustic dissatisfaction such as sound transmission from internal and external sources, footfall noise and voices from adjacent spaces are difficult to control. However, sound reduction treatments that incorporate absorptive surfaces, such as wall panels, ceiling baffles and surface enhancements can help with reverberation management and improve acoustic comfort. The noise reduction coefficient (NRC) of a material is an average value that determines its absorptive properties. The larger the NRC value, the better the material is at absorbing sound under standardized conditions.
Part 1: Ceiling
The following spaces, if present, have ceilings that meet the specifications described:
- Open Workspaces: minimum NRC of 0.9 for the entire surface area of the ceiling (excluding lights, skylights, diffusers, beams, joists, and grilles)
- Conference and teleconference rooms: minimum NRC of 0.8 on at least 50% of the surface area of the ceiling (excluding lights, skylights, diffusers, beams, joists, and grilles)
Part 2: Reverberation Time for Learning Spaces
Reverberation time measurements for learning spaces meet the following criteria:
- 1. Spaces less than or equal to 280 m3 [10,000 ft3]: less than 0.6 seconds
- 2. Spaces greater than 280 m3 [10,000 ft3], and equal to or less than 570 m3 [20,000 ft3]: less than 0.7 seconds
COMPATIBLE PRODUCTS
The Harmonic Collection by ALW is a full suite of customizable acoustic solutions, that will contribute to meeting Feature 78. The Harmonic Collection features acoustic material has an NRC rating of 0.85, and is available in 10 standard colors. Available options include linear, rings, blades, and baffles that are both illuminated and non-illuminated.
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