Making the Most of Light

As the clocks change and we adjust to Daylight Saving Time (DST), it's a moment to pause and reflect on the role light plays in our lives—especially here in Hatfield, where the changing seasons bring a unique rhythm to our days. At Phos, we're passionate about creating lighting solutions that don't just illuminate spaces but enhance the way we live, work, and feel. This year, as we spring forward or fall back, let's explore how LED technology and thoughtful design can help us make the most of light, synchronise with our body clocks, and create environments that truly work for us.

The Rhythm of Light, Time, and Road Safety

Daylight Saving Time was introduced to make better use of natural daylight, extending the hours of sunlight during the evenings. While the original energy-saving benefits are often debated today, the principle of aligning our lives with the natural rhythms of light remains as relevant as ever. Our bodies are deeply connected to light—it influences our sleep, mood, and even productivity.

This connection extends to our safety on the roads too. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), there is typically a 10% increase in road traffic collisions in the two weeks following the autumn clock change, as drivers adjust to commuting in darker conditions. When we 'spring forward', research from the UK Department for Transport reveals a 6% reduction in pedestrian casualties during evening rush hours, thanks to improved visibility from extended daylight.

Here in the UK, where the days can be short and the skies often grey, artificial light becomes a vital part of our daily lives—both at home and on our roads. But not all light is created equal. The quality of light—its colour temperature, brightness, and timing—matters just as much as the quantity. This is where LED technology shines, offering us the ability to tailor light to our needs and create spaces that support our wellbeing and safety.

The Power of LEDs: Quality Light for Better Living and Driving

At Phos, we believe in the transformative power of LEDs. Unlike traditional bulbs, LEDs offer unparalleled flexibility, efficiency, and control. They allow us to mimic the natural progression of daylight, creating environments that align with our circadian rhythms and enhance our daily lives.

The impact extends to our roadways too. The transition to LED street lighting across UK councils has led to a 30% reduction in night-time collisions in some areas, according to National Highways data. The directional nature of LED lighting reduces glare and light pollution while providing clearer visibility—a win-win for both drivers and residents.

One of the key features of our industry-leading LED chips is their high Colour Rendering Index (CRI), which ensures colours appear vibrant and true to life. Whether it's in a home, office, retail space, or vehicle headlights, high CRI lighting makes everything look better—helping us see the world as it's meant to be seen, with greater accuracy and detail when it matters most.

But we don't stop there. Nearly every product in our range is available in tuneable white, meaning it can sync with the hues of the sun as it rises and sets. Imagine lighting that starts your day with a cool, energising glow, transitions to a bright, neutral tone for focus during the day, and ends with a warm, soothing light to help you unwind in the evening. This isn't just lighting—it's light that works with you, adapting to your needs and supporting your natural rhythms.

Synchronising with Our Body Clocks

Our circadian rhythms are finely tuned to the natural cycle of light and dark. When these rhythms are disrupted—whether by poor lighting, irregular schedules, or the jarring shift of DST—it can affect our sleep, mood, and overall health.

This disruption can be particularly concerning for motorists. Transport for London statistics reveal that driver reaction times can be up to 35% slower in the first week after the clock change, with fatigue-related incidents increasing by as much as 20%. The "time shift hangover" affects our alertness behind the wheel, making proper lighting both in our homes and on our vehicles all the more crucial.

Daylight Saving Time serves as a reminder to prioritise light that works with our bodies, not against them. Here are a few ways to do that:

1. Maximise Natural Light: Start your day by opening the curtains or stepping outside. Even on cloudy days, natural light helps reset your body clock and prepares you for safer driving.

2. Choose LEDs Wisely: Opt for LED lighting that offers adjustable colour temperatures and brightness levels. With Phos’ tuneable white options, you can create the right light for every moment of the day, from energising morning routines to calming evening drives.

3. Design with Purpose: Whether it's your home, office, or community space, think about how light will be used throughout the day. Layered lighting—combining task, ambient, and accent lighting—can create a dynamic and supportive environment that keeps you alert when needed.

4. Respect the Dark: Just as light is important, so is darkness. In the evening, dim the lights and avoid harsh, cool-toned LEDs to help your body prepare for sleep and ensure you're well-rested for tomorrow's commute.

A Brighter Future for Hatfield and Beyond

As a Hatfield-based company, we're proud to be part of a community that values innovation and safety. The A1(M) corridor near our headquarters sees over 90,000 vehicles daily, with lighting playing a crucial role in maintaining traffic flow and reducing collision rates by up to 40% in properly illuminated sections, according to Hertfordshire County Council data.

LED technology isn't just about saving energy (though that's a big plus); it's about creating light that enhances our lives and keeps us safe. Whether it's a cosy home, a productive workspace, a welcoming public area, or a well-lit roadway, the right lighting can make all the difference.

This Daylight Saving Time, let's take the opportunity to rethink our relationship with light. Let's embrace the potential of LEDs to create spaces that are not only functional but also uplifting, inspiring, and safe. After all, light is more than just a practical necessity—it's a tool for living better and travelling safer.

At Phos, we're here to help you make the most of every moment, no matter the season. With our high CRI LED chips and tuneable white options, we're lighting the way in Hatfield and beyond—helping you see the world in its truest colours and sync with the natural rhythms of life, whether you're at home or on the road.