Operational Evaluation of Low Level White Lighting

Abstract : Three submarine watchsections performed their normal duties at sea for two six periods under Low Level White (LLW) and red ambient illumination. At the end of each watch, subjects evaluated the light and rated the ease of performing various tasks at their watchstation. LLW lighting provided many advantages over red lighting, including less eye strain, less fatigue, fewer headaches, increased ease of movement about the compartment, and enhanced CRT performance. Overall, LLW was the preferred ambient illumination. Recommendations are made for the future use of LLW as the standard for night- time ambient illumination. Keywords: attack submarines; periscope viewing; Ambient room lighting; Submarine lighting.