{"id":34470,"date":"2026-06-30T08:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-06-30T08:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/jelproducts.nl\/?p=34470"},"modified":"2026-09-10T11:55:12","modified_gmt":"2026-09-10T10:55:12","slug":"what-is-the-difference-between-horizontal-and-vertical-illuminance-in-harbors","status":"publish","type":"blog","link":"https:\/\/jelproducts.nl\/en\/blog\/wat-is-het-verschil-tussen-horizontale-en-verticale-verlichtingssterkte-in-havens\/","title":{"rendered":"What is the difference between horizontal and vertical illuminance in harbors?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Short answer<\/p>

The difference between horizontal and vertical illuminance lies in the direction in which the light is measured. Horizontal illuminance<\/strong> measure the light falling on a horizontal surface, such as the ground or a work floor. Vertical illuminance<\/strong> measures light on a vertical surface, such as a container wall, a vehicle side, or a person moving through the port. In ports, both measurements are necessary because safety and operational control depend on multi-directional visibility. This article answers the most frequently asked questions about illuminance in ports and terminals.<\/p>

20 lux<\/div>
horizontal on traffic routes<\/div><\/div>
50 lux<\/div>
vertically in work zones<\/div><\/div>
1.5 meters<\/div>
mounting height vertical lux<\/div><\/div><\/div>

Guideline values according to NEN-EN 12464-2:2024.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n

Why do ports measure lux both horizontally and vertically?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Activities in a port are not limited to illuminating the ground. Crane operators, truck drivers, and security personnel need to recognize objects, vehicles, and people on vertical surfaces,and horizontal-only lux is insufficient for this.<\/p>\n\n\n\\n

More about the approach of JEL Products can be found on the page port lighting<\/a> for ports and terminals.<\/p>\\n\n\n\n

Complex logistical movements take place in a port, where visibility in all directions is of vital importance. A well-lit roadway says little about the visibility of a passing forklift at eye level. Security cameras also work much better when there is sufficient vertical illuminance, as faces and license plates are then clearly captured.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

By port lighting<\/a> So, it's always about a combination of both measurements. A lighting plan that only focuses on horizontal lux does not meet the practical and normative requirements of a modern port area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What lighting standards apply to ports and terminals?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The European standard EN 12464-2 is leading for ports and terminals. This standard specifies minimum illuminance levels for outdoor workplaces, including both horizontal and vertical values. For traffic routes in ports, a minimum horizontal illuminance of 20 lux generally applies, while work areas require higher values.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition to EN 12464-2, sector-specific guidelines also play a role. Consider requirements from port authorities, ISPS security standards for security zones, and additional requirements for ATEX zones where there is a risk of explosion. For vertical illuminance, a minimum of 50 lux at a height of 1.5 meters is often used in work zones, but this varies by application and risk class.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Relevant considerations for lighting standards in ports:<\/p>\n\n\n\n