Proper lighting for sports fields is crucial for performance and safety. The type of sports field lighting a facility should use depends on the type of sports played there.
If different types of sports are hosted on the same field, then the lighting selected should cater to each sport's individual requirements. In addition, factors like whether the sports draw a huge crowd or a small gathering or whether they are exclusively televised also influence the type of light used in the facility.
LED technology offers numerous benefits over traditional lighting solutions, making it the ideal choice for sports lighting. Let's examine the benefits of using LED lights in sports fields, the key considerations for sports field lighting design, and the standards and regulations to follow.
Why LED Lighting for Sports Fields?
LED lighting is the most energy-efficient lighting you can use for a sports field. Its peculiarity is that 80% of the energy used is converted to light, and only 20% is wasted as heat. Thus, energy is used optimally when you opt for LED light. In conventional lighting, a lot of energy is wasted in the form of heat.
Superior brightness is another key factor that makes LED lights a much sought-after lighting option for sports fields. With LED lights, the light points downward towards the field, with only very little light getting lost sideways. With the right sideplates and backlight control, you can adjust the lighting as per your requirements.
LED lights have a long lifespan compared to traditional lighting. Once installed, they can last for up to 11 years with continuous operation and 22 years with 50% operation. Since sports fields do not use light continuously, they are bound to last even longer.
Glare and shadow are other important factors to consider in sports field lighting. Shadow and glare should be nil so that you get the best visual experience. LED lights can make this possible and provide a better visual experience.
Besides, it offers better color rendering and high-lumen output which is crucial for both players and spectators.
What are the Key Considerations for Sports Field Lighting Design?
When designing sports field lighting, it's important to consider the below aspects.
Horizontal and Vertical Illuminance
Horizontal and vertical illuminance refers to the horizontal and vertical distribution of light. Horizontal illuminance ensures even lighting across the field so spectators and officials can properly view the game.
Vertical illuminance covers the goalpost, players or any other vertical surface for which proper illumination is required.
Glare Reduction
The sports field lighting should minimize glare to prevent visual discomfort. Glare reduction also avoids accidents and other mishaps which normally happen in the field.
Another advantage of reducing glare is the comfort it offers to the spectators, players, coaches and anyone viewing the game.
Color Properties
This includes the color temperature and color rendering index. Color temperature refers to how warm or cool the light is. Choosing the right color temperature is highly essential for optimal visibility.
Color rendering index refers to the quality of light. Higher color rendering index offers better clarity and visibility to the viewers.
What are the Standards and Regulations for Sports Lighting?
The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) introduced lighting standards and regulations to improve the overall lighting in sports fields. Adhering to lighting standards ensures the safety of the players and audience and also provides a better visual experience.
These lighting regulations outline the required illuminance levels, uniformity, and other important factors.
| Sport | Outdoor/indoor | Class I/II | Class II / III | Class III/ IV |
| Baseball/ Football/ soccer/ softball | Outdoor | 50-100 fc | 30-50 fc | 20-30 fc |
| Basketball/ Tennis | Outdoor | 30-50 fc | 20-30 fc | 10-20 fc |
| Basketball | Indoor | 50-100 fc | 30-50 fc | 20-30 fc |
| Tennis/ swimming/ gymnasium | Indoor | 50-75 fc | 30-50 fc | 20-30 fc |
Class 1 - 5000 or more spectators
Class II - 2000 - 5000 spectators
Class III - Upto 2000 spectators
Class IV - Recreational play of less than 2000 spectators.
Planning and Installation Tips
LED lighting installation requires proper planning to achieve the best result. Here are some steps to follow before installing LED sports light
Assess the Field
How the facility will be used is the first thing to consider before installing LED sports lighting. The lighting requirement changes depending on the type of sports played.
Sports that use small balls, like tennis and badminton, should have 20fc of light. On the other hand, football field lighting needs only 7.5fc of light.
Choose the Right light
You should select high-quality LED lights that meet the required standards. The light should not only be energy efficient and cost-effective but also meet the specific requirements of sports fields, such as glare and shadow reduction and the right color rendering.
LED lighting products are the best as they are economical and long-lasting. They can also be adjusted to suit the specific requirements of the sports field.
Install Correctly
The Sports lighting design should be done in such a way that they are positioned and angled correctly to provide even coverage.
You should select the beam angle correctly depending on the field's size, the lighting fixture's height, and the lumen requirement. The lights should have side plates and backlight control to avoid spillage of light.
Maintenance and Operation
Regular maintenance of LED sports lights is highly essential to get the desired result. The lights should be regularly cleaned and inspected so that corrective actions can be taken whenever required.
You should also follow the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure optimal performance and extend the lifespan of your lighting system.
Conclusion
LED sports lighting offers numerous benefits, making it the best choice for modern sports fields. From saving energy and cost and having less impact on the environment, LED lighting benefits far exceed the cost. Moreover, LED lights are also long lasting and does not require frequent replacement and repair.
By following the right design, installation, and maintenance practices, you can achieve perfect lighting that enhances performance and safety on the field.
