Seeing things in a different light

The halophosphate fluorescent lamps in nine operating theatres and the surgery recovery area have been replaced with Philips Master OptiView lamps, claimed to allow greater accuracy of patient diagnosis. Philips says although fluorescent lamps have become the “workhorse” of hospital lighting, variations in colour rendering can affect how accurately medical staff can view objects.

The OptiView lamps were developed following “extensive research” into the optimum lighting for medical tasks; their colour rendering index of Ra>90 is reportedly ideal for good observation of skin colour and makes it “much easier” to locate veins for injections and extractions. Roddy Macleod, estate manager at Raigmore, said: “We were amazed we could improve the lighting simply by switching over to the Philips Master OptiView lamp without installing new fittings as well. The lamp also has a lower lumen depreciation than conventional fluorescents, meaning a longer service life, and ultimately lower operating costs.”

Staff in the hospital’s chest treatment administrative office, meanwhile, have benefited from Philips’ Master ActiViva lamps, trialled after many complained of dull ambience within the office which some believed had caused headaches.

The ActiViva lamps have been developed following extensive research to recreate the effect of natural blue-sky daylight thanks to their blue-rich light. Philips claims this stimulates the biological clock and makes people more energised and active.

Both lamp types also have a low mercury content compared with “standard” fluorescent lamps.