Artificial outdoor light is essential in our modern society; however poorly designed, directed and maintained lighting can cause problems. Light pollution is bad for us and for wildlife, so what can we do, read more here. Standards Australia has released a draft revised standard for Public Comment: AS/NZS 4282 Control of obtrusive effects for outdoor lighting which aims to provide a common basis for assessment of the likely effects of developments that involve the provision of outdoor lighting. Obtrusive effects of outdoor lighting are best controlled by appropriate design, this document is primarily applicable to new systems and is intended to be referenced by relevant authorities and designers of outdoor lighting. It refers to the potentially adverse effects of outdoor lighting on nearby residents, (e.g. of dwellings such as houses, hotels, hospitals), users of adjacent roads (e.g. vehicle drivers, pedestrians, cyclists), and transport signalling systems (e.g. air, marine, rail), on astronomical observations and environmental receivers.
Standards Australia encourages views and input from a wide cross section of the public on a draft publication during the Public Comment stage. Create a free account when you Login to Standards Australia Connect and browse the draft of AS/NZS 4282 Control of obtrusive effects for outdoor lighting which supersedes the 2019 edition. It is open for Public Comment until 11 August 2022. More information on how to comment in the user guide for members of the public.
The draft standard was prepared by members of the Standards Australia Technical Committee LG-010 Obtrusive effects of outdoor lighting. CFA supports a representative to participate on this committee, bringing the consumer stakeholder contribution to the process and ensuring a robust standard of benefit to the community. Find out more about the CFA Standards Project.
Check with your local council regarding complaints about lights which impact on neighbouring properties by causing excessive illumination, glare, or light spillage. Complaints are investigated under the Environmental Protection Act 1994. Each year light pollution increases by 2% across the globe, in response the Australian Government has produce the National Light Pollution Guidelines for Wildlife.
Enjoy this article? Sign up to our monthly newsletter and stay up to date on the latest consumer policy news.