Diffuse reflectance should conform to the recommendations shown in Table 12.3.
Additional Information: The amount of light reflected from a surface depends on its color; typical reflectance values for various colors are given in Table 12.4. Surfaces adjacent to a visual display device should have a dull matte finish to reduce glare. Large surface areas should be covered with non-saturated colors, such as tints, pastels, and warm grays that are nonglossy. Some noncritical small areas such as door frames and molding may be glossy if ease of cleaning is essential. 0700, 5908, 1472G
Table 12.3 Recommended Workplace Reflectance Levels
Surface |
Reflectances |
|
Preferred |
Permissible |
|
Ceiling1 |
80% |
60–95% |
Upper Wall |
50% |
40–60% |
Lower Wall |
15–20% |
|
Instruments/Displays |
80–100% |
|
Cabinets/Consoles |
20–40% |
|
Floor |
30% |
15–30% |
Furniture |
35% |
25–45% |
1 Recommended reflectances are for finish only. Overall average reflectance of acoustic materials may be somewhat lower. The upper walls (one to two feet below the ceiling) may be painted with the same paint as is used on the ceiling.
Table 12.4 Surface Color Reflectance Values
Color |
Reflectance (%) |
|
White light |
Cream |
75 |
Gray |
75 |
|
Yellow |
75 |
|
Buff |
70 |
|
Green |
65 |
|
Blue |
55 |
|
Medium |
Cream |
75 |
Gray |
75 |
|
Yellow |
75 |
|
Buff |
70 |
|
Green |
65 |
|
Dark |
Gray |
30 |
Red |
13 |
|
Brown |
10 |
|
Blue |
8 |
|
Green |
7 |
|
Wood finish |
Maple |
42 |
Satinwood |
34 |
|
English Oak |
17 |
|
Walnut |
16 |
|
Mahogany |
12 |