FAQ’s
Answers to common questions about our products, technology and industry standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Under new regulations, traditional fluorescent lamps are being phased out in the UK and EU due to their environmental impact and inefficiency. We provide LED retrofit solutions to replace outdated fluorescent fittings.
- Our products use high-performance LED technology, designed to reduce energy consumption and maintenance costs while meeting modern efficiency standards. Many of our products meet Building Regulations Part L.
- Many of our luminaires are specifically designed with anti-ligature features to reduce the risk of self-harm in mental healthcare and custodial environments. These are tested to ensure compliance and effectiveness.
- Yes. We manufacture a range of luminaires independently tested and approved by HMPPS to Ministry of Justice standards (STD/E/SPEC/021 and 022). These are used across custodial environments throughout the UK.
- All Light Years Ahead luminaires undergo rigorous in-house testing and independent testing. This includes impact testing (IK ratings), ingress protection (IP ratings) and anti-ligature assessments where required. Our testing goes beyond standard requirements to ensure durability, compliance and safety.
- Smoke alarm grille covers specifically designed for secure settings can help protect detectors from tampering or damage without interfering with their function.
- Part L of the Building Regulations sets energy efficiency requirements for lighting in the UK. Many of our LED luminaires are designed to exceed these standards, helping projects comply with regulations while reducing costs.
- An IK rating measures a luminaire’s resistance to impact. It ranges from IK00 (no protection) to IK11 (high protection). At Light Years Ahead, we test well beyond IK11, with products proven to withstand up to IK20 and higher.
- An IP rating (Ingress Protection) defines how resistant a luminaire is to dust and water. For example, IP20 provides basic protection, while IP66 offers dust-tight and water-resistant performance.
- Circadian rhythm lighting is designed to mimic natural daylight patterns, helping the body regulate its internal clock. It can improve sleep quality, mood and overall wellbeing.
- MelaGen® is our circadian-supportive lighting solution. By controlling light wavelengths, it helps regulate natural sleep-wake cycles, supporting healthier sleep patterns, calmer daytime behaviour and improved wellbeing in care and secure environments.
- Retrofitting means upgrading existing light fittings with modern technology, often LED, without replacing the full system. It improves efficiency, extends lifespan and reduces waste; supporting sustainability and the circular economy.
- The CRI (Colour Rendering Index) measures how accurately a light source reveals the colours of objects compared to natural daylight. A higher CRI means colours appear more true to life. With MelaGen technology, we can produce lighting similar to daylight (100 CRI)and with an exceptional CRI of 92.4.
- With over 25 years of British manufacturing expertise, we provide luminaires that combine safety, efficiency and reliability. Clients trust us for our commitment to compliance, our innovative solutions such as MelaGen® and our ability to deliver on time, thanks to our short supply chain.