The objective of this Standard is to set out recommendations aimed at the provision of a visual environment conducive to the safe and efficient performance of tasks associated with industrial activities and processes.

This Standard is intended to be read in conjunction with the general recommendations of AS 1680.1, Interior and workplace lighting, Part 1: General principles and recommendations, and with other specific recommendations in the AS/NZS 1680.2 series which may apply, depending on the function of the interior space or the specific visual tasks involved.

This Standard parallels the structure of AS 1680.1 and contains recommendations that either add to or vary the recommendations of that Standard. While the sections of this Standard correspond with those of AS 1680.1, the clauses within each section are numbered consecutively and do not directly relate to the clauses in AS 1680.1.

Changes from the previous edition are as follows:

(a) ‘Maintenance illuminance’ has been changed to ‘maintained illuminance’ to conform with AS/NZS 1680.1.
(b) Diagrams of old industrial processes have been replaced with descriptions of tasks.
(c) Table E1 has been restructured to place the emphasis on task difficulty rather than try to capture all work tasks in every industry. This will allow adaption to changes in work practices and the increasing automation of industry.

The terms ‘normative’ and ‘informative’ have been used in this Standard to define the application of the appendix to which they apply. A ‘normative’ appendix is an integral part of a Standard, whereas an ‘informative’ appendix is only for information and guidance.

Originated in Australia as part of AS (E) CA501-1942. Originated in New Zealand as part NZCP 22:1962. Previous edition AS/NZS 1680.2.4:1997. Second edition 2017.