What type of lighting is best for a workspace to minimize eye strain?

Task lighting is most effective for minimizing eye strain in a workspace because it focuses on providing adequate illumination directly where it is needed for specific activities, such as reading or detailed work. This type of lighting helps to reduce glare and ensures that the lighting conditions match the visual requirements of the tasks at hand. By offering uniform brightness over the work surface, task lighting allows for clear visibility without forcing the eyes to strain, which can occur in poorly lit conditions.

While ambient lighting fills the room evenly and can contribute to overall visibility, it may not provide sufficient contrast or direct illumination for detailed tasks. Accent lighting is designed to highlight specific areas rather than providing broad coverage needed for functional workspace activities. Natural lighting is beneficial for its warmth and dynamic qualities, but it can also introduce variations in brightness throughout the day and may not always be available, thus making task lighting the most reliable option for minimizing eye strain in a controlled work environment.