A survey sent to over 4000 interior design professionals by Orange Lighting showed a startling lack of awareness of the new lighting standards contained in the recent revisions to Part L of the Building Regulations.
A new survey has revealed worrying levels of ignorance about recent new lighting regulations that have been in force for months. The measures introduced by the government over a year ago are critical to new builds and refurbishments and can lead to expensive adjustments and even fines if not observed.
In the recent study, interior designers and architects were probed as to their awareness of the new lighting standards contained in the recent revisions to Part L of the Building Regulations; a measure that amongst other points dramatically increases the stipulated use of low energy lighting. Over half, 53%, claimed to have no knowledge at all of the requirements. The findings raise serious concerns for all concerned in the building sector and for commissioning clients too.
The survey was sent to over 4000 interior design professionals by Orange Lighting – a leading lighting retailer and consultancy. The research indicates a higher level of awareness of recent changes of Building Regulations and new specifications regarding low energy ratings. However, further analysis reveals that design professionals have a shaky grasp of the facts and that the vast majority (72%) do not have the necessary know how to choose fittings that comply with regulations including the new ‘Target Emissions Rate’.
In response to the results of the survey, Andrew Orange, managing director of the company that commissioned the survey commented: “The results are very sobering. The finger of blame should be pointed at the authorities. If sweeping new regulations are to be imposed – a commensurate level of publicity is necessary. In my dealings with my interior design clients it is plain that many of these new measures have not been flagged effectively.”
Andrew has offered all designers free briefing on the new regulations in order to avoid pitfalls with future projects. He remarked: “The range of lights available has been transformed by these new measures which, in turn, has a large impact on the aesthetics of a scheme. Without a thorough awareness of the available lighting options designers will hampered in their outcomes”.
