In Germany, as of August 2025, the DIN 5031-100 standard became a key guideline for the application and assessment of the non-visual properties and effects of electric light on humans in building interiors.

About study

✓ Overall health

Title:	DIN 5031-100
Author:	Working Committee NA 058-00-27 AA “Effects of Light on Humans” at the DIN Standardization Committee for Lighting Technology (FNL)
Date:	10. September 2025
Source:	https://www.dinmedia.de/en/standard/din-5031-100/392132532

Brief summary

The German standard DIN 5031-100, developed by the committee NA 058-00-27 AA “Effects of Light on Humans” at DIN, gained full standard status in August 2025 for the assessment of melanopic and non-visual effects of light recommended in the standard. These effects include, for example, suppression of melatonin secretion, changes in alertness, regulation of heart rate, or shifts in the circadian rhythm. The standard unifies and supplements terminology, introduces correction functions, and harmonizes procedures with the international standard CIE S 026, providing a scientifically grounded framework for practical use and the appropriate selection of full-spectrum lighting in both general lighting technology and health-oriented applications. This document is further clear confirmation that the biological, non-visual qualities of lighting will gradually be addressed, recommended, and evaluated in binding national standards for interior lighting—now, following the example set by Germany.

Compared to the 2015 Version, the Standard Introduces New Terms, Definitions, and Correction Functions

The current edition of DIN 5031-100 builds on previous versions (DIN V, DIN SPEC, DIN TS) and includes several significant updates. The terminology is now aligned with the international standard CIE S 026. The concept of the melanopic light effect, introduced in 2015, remains unchanged. Newly added are a correction function for age-dependent lens transmittance with a simplified approximation formula, as well as a correction function for assessing transmittance and reflection of light depending on the material. The standard confirms that melanopic effects of light must be evaluated separately, independently of visual effects, even though interactions exist between them.

Short-Wavelength Spectrum Poses a Risk to Vision

The document also highlights potential risks of short-wavelength spectral components (= Harmful Blue Light) at high exposure levels. Assessment of these risks is already detailed in EU Directive 2006/25/EC and in the German ordinance on occupational safety and health regarding artificial optical radiation. Since the exposure limit values specified in the EU directive are binding for all lighting designs, DIN 5031-100 does not need to provide additional supplementary guidance.

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