Let’s start with something we see far too often. You receive a lighting design that looks flawless on paper, ideal light levels, great uniformity, and maybe even a surprisingly low cost. But once it's installed? The performance doesn’t match the promises. Light levels fall short, shadowing appears where it shouldn’t, and compliance issues creep in.
What went wrong? Most of the time, it comes down to one thing: unverified photometric data.
That’s why every lighting design should come with an LM-79 report. No exceptions.
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To keep everything clear, here’s a quick glossary:
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What Is an LM-79 Report and Why Should You Care?
LM-79 is a standardised test method created by the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES). It’s the only way to accurately and independently measure the performance of an LED luminaire, not just the LED chip inside it.
An LM-79 test is conducted by an accredited third-party lab and provides verified data on:
- Lumen output (how much light the whole fixture emits)
- Efficacy (lumens per watt)
- Correlated Colour Temperature (CCT)
- Colour Rendering Index (CRI)
- Light distribution (photometry)
This data feeds directly into design software like DIALux, AGi32, and RELUX, via digital IES files. And that’s where the risk begins: if the IES file isn't based on a certified LM-79 report, you’re flying blind.
Why Verified IES Files Matter in Lighting Design
Lighting design software simulates real-world conditions using the photometric data in IES files. If that data is inaccurate - whether intentionally or not - the entire design falls apart.
Let’s say the design shows 20,000 lumens per fitting, but in reality the luminaire only produces 16,000. You’ll end up with:
- Underlit zones
- Non-compliance with safety or broadcast standards
- Increased energy use if the system is later “fixed” by overcompensating
- Rework costs to add more fixtures or change mast heights
That’s true for a container yard, a stadium, or an airport apron. Verified data = predictable results.
Real-World Consequences: How the Customer Pays the Price
When lighting systems are designed using unverifiable or inflated data, the customer always suffers. Here's how:
- Financial Losses
Unverified systems often need rework—adding luminaires, repositioning masts, re-aiming fittings—all of which costs time and money that wasn’t in the original budget. - Standards Non-Compliance
Regulations are strict for a reason. In aviation, maritime, and sports, non-compliance with standards like ICAO, IMO, or FIFA can mean fines, shutdowns, or cancelled events. - Safety Risks
Insufficient lighting creates hazards. Whether it’s crane operators, ground crew, or athletes, poor visibility increases the risk of injury and operational failure. - Operational Downtime
When systems don’t perform, they require troubleshooting, testing, and adjustments—all of which interrupt your core operations. - Reputational Damage
For consultants, contractors, or facility managers, a failed lighting scheme hurts your credibility and future business. - Warranty and Maintenance Pitfalls
If a system was based on bad data, it’s likely warranties won’t hold up either. You may also face higher maintenance costs due to poor-quality components or unexpected failure rates.
Across Every Sector It’s the Same Story
This applies everywhere:
- Ports and terminals need consistent yard lighting to keep operations safe and productive.
- Airports must meet strict apron and runway standards for safety and visibility.
- Stadiums can’t afford shadowing or glare that ruins gameplay and broadcasts.
What You Should Ask For
Before you approve any lighting design:
- Request the LM-79 report for the exact luminaire used.
- Ensure the IES file matches that report—not a generic model.
- Confirm the lab is accredited (e.g. NVLAP or ISO 17025 certified).
Ask your supplier:
- Has the entire luminaire been tested—not just the chip?
- Can they prove the numbers in the design software?
If the answers aren’t clear, press pause.
Don’t Gamble with Lighting Design
A slick rendering is easy to produce but it means nothing without verified data behind it. LM-79 certification is your insurance policy against misleading specs, poor performance, and costly mistakes.
Got questions about LM-79, IES files, or your next lighting project? Let’s talk. Our team’s here to help, whether you need advice, auditing, or a fully compliant lighting design. Reach out anytime.