Interpretation #7206

Published July 17, 2013

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Original Request

Code Version
2010
Code
BUILDING
Code Description
Building
Chapter
4
Section
443.3.7.2
Topic
Lighting

Question

Is it the intent of 443.3.7.2 to maintain a uniform lighting level between 40 and 50 foot-candles throughout a room?

Answer Published 07/17/2013 at 4:28 PM

No, the code sets a minimum of 40 foot-candle level at the
task level (desk), it does not set a maximum level.
Section 443.3.7.1 requires a minimum of 40 foot-candles at
the desk. Section 443.3.7.2 indicates the illumination level
at the walls be within 10 foot-candles of that required at
the desk.

Commentary

In no way does the code set the maximum light level at 50 foot-candles. The code only sets the minimum level.