The use of artificial illumination can help both deter criminal activity as well as reduce accidents. Key issues are the accessibility of the fixtures, the level of illumination, the reduction of shadows, and the lighting of horizontal surfaces. Areas for careful consideration of lighting include lobbies, stairwells, corridors.
Light fixtures are a frequent target of vandalism. The damage and theft of a fixture can leave an area vulnerable to thieves and dangerous to walk through. Therefore, the proper selection and installation of fixtures is critical. They should be mounted as high as possible and still provide the illumination required. Fixtures should not be hanging or projecting to provide footholds for scaling a wall. They should be flush mounted or recessed whenever possible and covered with an impact resistant material.
It is important to be aware of the line of sight between the light fixtures location and objects that may cast a shadow. Careful placement will avoid dark corners behind doors, trashcans, etc.
Fixtures should be installed to cast a light pattern over a broad horizontal area rather than a tall vertical area. Light colored surfaces reflect light more efficiently than dark colored surfaces.