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Gymnamsium Lighting

Gymnasiums are dynamic spaces that present impact challenges from balls and other sporting goods, calling for impact-resistant luminaires durable in both construction and mounting to avoid accidental damage. Furthermore, the fixture construction must support visibility of fast-moving objects while minimizing shadows, to optimize both the ability and safety of the athlete. Well-lit ceilings are preferred due to the wide variety of sports played within gymnasium walls. Consideration must also be given to alternate uses of the space, which might call for dimming zones and/or focus areas to support activities ranging from theatrical performances to science project exhibitions or school dances. Look for fixtures that carry Kenall’s Peace of Mind Guarantee® against breakage for the normal service life of the fixture.

Gymnasium Lighting

Penn State Intramural Building - University Park, PA

Penn State gymnasium featuring Kenall luminaires Penn State University Intramural Building - University Park, PA

Gymnasium Overview

Due to the many physical activities performed in a gymnasium, often involving balls traveling at a high rate of speed, luminaire construction must feature unbreakable diffusers and robust housings. Careful use of durable pendant mounted fixtures in court areas with higher ceilings is acceptable. Pendant mounting should be avoided at mounting heights less than twenty foot. In general, fixtures with high vertical illuminance and a subtle uplight component are preferred to aid in visibillity while lighting the ceiling space. Also, at risk from impacts within the space are exit signs and wall receptacles. As such, they should be constructed of high-quality materials and lensing that carry a quality—preferably lifetime—guarantee.

Lighting Best Practices

  1. Use fixtures with larger apertures.
    • Improves visibility of fast-moving objects
    • Reduces shadows
  2. Consider other uses for the space.
    • Plan dimming zones & focus areas to improve functionality.
  3. Remember exit signs and receptacles are at risk for impact and therefore susceptible to breakage.
  4. Avoid single pendant systems for fixtures that are not round.
  5. Remember exit signs and receptacles are at risk for impact and therefore susceptible to breakage.

Fixture Construction

  1. Choose fixture constructed for durability.
  2. Look for polycarbonate refractors and reflectors.
  3. Wire guards may be necessary for lower mounting heights.
  4. Pendant fixture mounting systems should be flexible in all directions.
  5. Rigid mounted fixtures should have at least four (4) mounting points.

Mounting Considerations

  1. Pendant mounting may be used carefully.
  2. Well-lit ceilings are highly valued.

Peace of Mind Guarantee

Kenall will repair or replace qualifying luminaires rendered inoperable due to intentional abuse by vandals or accidental impact for the normal service life of the fixture.

Learn More about our Peace of Mind Guarantee

Recommended Illuminance

Foot Candles (fc) @ surface / object Activity / Use
50 Court/Floor Physical Activity
20 Bleachers / Observation Decks Spectating
Gymnasium

EPLB Series

The EPLB series of pendant mount luminaires offer durable polycarbonate refractors and safety cables to provide both impact resistance and highly effective illumination. The LEDs are arranged to provide the uplight needed to brighten spaces and reduce shadows.

View Luminaires Ideal for Gymnasiums

EPLB Series
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