Color Ergonomics In The Industrial Environment

What are 'Color Ergonomics'?

Webster's defines ergonomics as 'an applied science concerned with the characteristics of people that need to be considered in designing and arranging things that they use in order that people and things will interact most effectively and safely'.

Simply stated, 'Color Ergonomics' is the science of using the most appropriate color in a given circumstance which will best benefit those individuals working in that environment. It is our endeavor to provide you with comprehensive color information that will have profound results in your facility.

When did all this color theory begin?

In the mid-1920's the use of functional color was just being developed. Studies were first conducted in hospitals to lessen glare and improve the vision of the surgeon - the use of appropriate color application was underway. This color movement then extended to schools, offices and industrial plants. Today 'Color Ergonomics' or color theory is critical to provide atmospheres that will help us do our best in an ever-demanding work environment.

Aesthetic & physiological use of color

There are many details to consider when color styling an industrial facility. The selection of appropriate color is based on many factors from lighting conditions, temperature fluctuations and working atmosphere to concentration on the product or service being rendered.

To assist with many of these design concerns we have an expert staff in our Color Design Studio with experience in color styling the most demanding environments. Our designers will specify colors for every surface and Devoe Representatives will specify the correct products for your application. In this manner, you will be assured the most outstanding results.

When performing any task our eyes are constantly adjusting to compensate for lighting levels. Difficulties arise when there are high and disturbing contrasts in the field of vision.

Severe differences of light and dark work to constrict the pupil and deprive the eye of sufficient light to see clearly. With too many different levels of light the eye is forced to strain… therefore, color becomes a critical tool in helping us to achieve efficiency and comfort when performing any task.

It is the goal of the color consultant or designer to select colors that will minimize eyestrain and enhance the atmosphere in which work is being conducted. Therefore Light Reflectance of colors becomes an important issue in the design of any facility.

Light Reflectance

Ceilings, almost without exception, should be white. A ceiling that projects a color will diminish valuable light and may distract attention away from jobs at hand. White ceilings are essential to the efficiency of natural and artificial lighting systems.

Upper wall areas should have a Light Reflectance Value of 50%, 60% or 70%, depending on surrounding surfaces and working conditions. The objective is to have a more uniform relationship of values between wall and floor areas so there is not drastic eyestrain when performing tasks.

The wainscot or lower wall areas, along with machinery, equipment and desks, may range in Light Reflectance from 25% to 40% with floors reflecting at least 20%, if practical. Each facility will have unique circumstances with respect to the surfaces that must be painted; these percentages represent guidelines to assist in the color selection process.

There is a distinct advantage in the colors that are illustrated on the Devoe Coatings color card, 'Colors for Commerce' - it conveys the Light Reflectance Value information in the numbering system. The center 'two digit' number provides this most valuable data to assist in your work.

Temperature

The temperature of the environment is also an important consideration when selecting colors. Warm and cool colors can be used to help create surroundings that are more comfortable.

In very cold spaces, such as laboratories, food-processing areas, freezer units, warehouse, storage and shipping areas and colder climates that expose workers to chilly temperatures, it is reasonable to utilize colors which are 'warm' such as yellow, gold, peach, copper or beige. These colors will assist in providing the sensation that the atmosphere is warmer.

Alternately, in very warm spaces, such as welding areas, heavy heat-producing manufacturing sites, congested equipment areas, boiler and furnace rooms and warmer climates where heat is oppressive, 'cool' colors such as green, teal, blue and gray will promote a sense of coolness and freshness.

Creating order

It is implicit that the level of activity in each workplace will vary. Some facilities may operate at a moderate pace, while others may be extremely hectic. In each circumstance it remains a fact that it is imperative to create as much organization as possible and therefore reduce stress. Color can be used to help sort, organize, prioritize, transport and identify.

Important elements may be easily distinguished from those that are more insignificant simply by color application. It then allows us to concentrate mental efforts on our projects and in an industrial facility it is especially critical to create this order.

Safety & Compliance Color Concerns

Using appropriate safety colors to designate cautions and hazards, as well as safe areas, is a significant step in achieving excellence in the industrial atmosphere.

Safety is a priority at Devoe and one that we share consistently with our clients. Our 'Colors for Safety' color chart will increase overall plant safety levels by color coding hazardous areas, equipment and piping to be in compliance with ANSI and OSHA standards.

Another service provided through our Color Design Studio includes the development of 'Custom Pipeline Identification Displays'. With these unique displays you will be able to visually illustrate your own corporate pipeline specifications.

Previews

In addition to outstanding products, the services of our ICIColor Design Studio will assist you in visualizing your unique facility with our 'Previews' program.

Imagine a world where your industrial plant is transformed with the color vision of our professionals. Inside the Color Design Studio, artistry incorporated with innovative computer technology turns the emotion of color into reality.

You can benefit by 'Previewing' new color applications, visualizing and experimenting prior to commitment and purchase. Simply by providing our designers with photographs of your project.

Product Considerations

Critical to the success of your project is determining the most appropriate product for your unique application. We are dedicated to excellence in product and color. We support your goals with respect for you, your employees and the environment; therefore, you can be assured that our coatings are formulated without hazardous lead and chromate pigments.

Proper coatings specifications and long term performance, with UV protection an important consideration, will safeguard your color choice and assure you the highest degree of color retention. The longevity of your color is particularly significant in areas of safety and hazard identification.

Advantages

Color is an incredible tool that can achieve many results. Creating colorful and thoughtful surroundings delivers the message that employees are important. The results will almost always be beneficial… an increase in production and improved quality control are issues that are definitely enhanced.

In addition to aesthetic improvements, a reduction in absenteeism and improved morale are often times noticed when we take the time to carefully color style these special industrial environments.

Bibliography

For further information please reference works by Faber Birren, a noted professional color consultant who has documented many of these findings. He has written extensively on this subject and spent more than thirty years researching human response to color. Today his works have become a basic reference for architects, industrial designers, businesses and institutions concerned with the human environment.