Light! Who thinks much about light? Let me tell you, it can pay to think about light. Take this example: In an effort to evenly illuminate the largest area possible in the back of your truck, you might spec the cargo area with either one central lamp or maybe a few lights spaced out down the middle of the ceiling. But this solution can ultimately lead to unforeseen productivity issues for the driver.
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Here is a transcript of the video:
The placement of even a low-profile lamp on the ceiling of a vehicle’s cargo or work area can make it vulnerable to being struck by the cargo itself, dock equipment and forklifts. The solution? There are corner-mount interior lighting solutions out there that relocates a vehicle’s critical lighting sources away from the high-traffic, central core of the vehicle.
As an added bonus, corner-mounted lights provide opposing beam directions that reduce shadows and dark areas, enhancing overall interior illumination quality. As such, this can even reduce the number of lights required and the strain on your electrical system.
Speaking of the electrical system, spec’ing the wrong lighting can draw a lot more power than is necessary, a consequence that can be detrimental during winter months especially. A simple way to cut back on the electricity needed for lighting is to use LED lights, which feature a lower amp draw than incandescent bulbs.
Here’s something interesting: Did you know a light’s color temperature actually has the potential to enhance productivity? Here’s the scoop:
A light’s color temperature is measured on the Kelvin temperature scale. Those shopping for LED lights will find a variety of options available on the marketplace, typically anywhere from 2300K to 6000K, and choice actually matters here. Both color temperature and the brightness of the lights can go a long way when it comes to a fleet’s driver retention efforts.
5000K lights appear brighter because they more closely approximate daylight and work well in workspaces, but 3000K lights are softer light, something that people are likely more used to in their homes. So, lean towards 5000K lights when brightness is important, like in a cargo area, and use warmer 3000K lights might be better in the cab.
It may seem like small potatoes, but the proper light at the right color temperature can mean the difference between a satisfied driver who can easily read labels, sign paperwork, or sort and load packages, and a frustrated one who struggles to accomplish these seemingly simple tasks. If the lights are too bright or too dim, routine tasks become challenging and driver dissatisfaction increases.
