This is a legacy version of the WELL Building Standard. Please check the latest version here.

Light elimination

Light is the primary zeitgeber, the signal by which the body aligns its internal clock with the external environment. Therefore light at night is a potential hazard as it can disrupt circadian rhythm. It blurs the distinction between day and night, and affects the timing of the sleep wake cycle.

This feature ensures that no external sources, devices or electrical features create light at night in a sleeping area.

Part 1: Window Light Elimination

In all bedrooms windows, one of the following is met:

a) Blackout shades with 0% transmittance and no light gaps on the perimeter.
b) Operable outdoor shutters with 0% transmittance.
Part 2: Electric Light Elimination

In all bedrooms, the following are met:

a) All electronics have an option to produce no light.
Part 3: Exterior Lighting

All outdoor lamp posts:

a) Emit no light above the horizontal plane.
b) Use shielding so that the angle of viewing is not less than 60°.

Applicability Matrix

Core & Shell New Construction WELL Interiors
Part 1: Window Light Elimination - - -
Part 2: Electric Light Elimination - - -
Part 3: Exterior Lighting - - -
Commercial Kitchen Education Multifamily Residential Retail
Part 1: Window Light Elimination - - O -
Part 2: Electric Light Elimination - - O -
Part 3: Exterior Lighting - - O -

Verification Methods Matrix

Letters of Assurance Annotated Documents On-Site Checks
PART 1 ()
Window Light Elimination
Auditor Inspection
PART 2 ()
Electric Light Elimination
Auditor Inspection
PART 3 (Performance)
Exterior Lighting
Architect Letter of Assurance