Lighting Audit: A Simple Step with Big Returns

In the fast-paced world of garments manufacturing and retail, every detail matters—especially the lighting. From inspecting tiny fabric flaws to helping customers visualize color accuracy in the fitting room, lighting plays a silent yet powerful role across the entire value chain. Yet, it’s often overlooked.

A lighting audit is one of the simplest, most cost-effective steps garment manufacturers and retailers can take to significantly improve product quality, energy efficiency, and overall profitability. It’s not just about changing bulbs—it’s about optimizing your environment to enhance precision, reduce waste, and create better visual conditions for workers and customers alike.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about conducting a lighting audit in the garments industry—from factory floors to fitting rooms. You’ll learn why lighting matters, how to measure what you have, and what improvements deliver the biggest returns.

Let’s shed light on how small changes can lead to big gains.

What Is a Lighting Audit in the Garments Industry?

A lighting audit is a structured evaluation of the lighting conditions in a workspace. In the garments industry, this means carefully assessing the quality, placement, efficiency, and suitability of lighting in areas like production floors, quality control (QC) zones, warehouses, and retail spaces.

It’s more than just checking whether the lights are “on”—a lighting audit focuses on how well the lights perform for the specific visual tasks required in garment production and presentation.

Purpose of a Lighting Audit

The core objectives of a lighting audit in the garments industry include:

• Ensuring color accuracy during stitching, dyeing, and inspection
• Reducing defects and rework caused by poor visibility
• Improving worker comfort and reducing eye strain
• Saving energy and costs through efficient lighting systems
• Creating a visually appealing retail experience that drives sales

Lighting Challenges in Garment Manufacturing

Garment factories operate under intense visual demands. Workers must spot:

• Color mismatches
• Stitching defects
• Fabric inconsistencies
• Dust, lint, or stains

Inadequate or inconsistent lighting leads to missed flaws, false rejects, and higher return rates. Many garments manufacturers rely on outdated fluorescent systems that flicker, degrade over time, or fail to meet brightness and color-rendering standards.

Lighting in Garment Retail & Showrooms

Retail lighting is just as critical. Poor lighting in fitting rooms or display areas can make garments look dull, misrepresent colors, or cast unflattering shadows—impacting sales and customer satisfaction.

A well-executed lighting audit helps identify these shortcomings and sets the stage for strategic upgrades.

Industrial vs. Retail Lighting Audits

While both environments share lighting quality goals, their needs differ:

Aspect	Factory/Production	Retail/Fitting Rooms
Focus	Accuracy, consistency	Ambience, attractiveness
Light Type	Task lighting (high CRI)	Accent + ambient lighting
Common Issues	Shadowing, glare, uneven lux	Poor color rendering, harsh light
Metrics Evaluated	Lux, CRI, CCT, flicker	CRI, beam angle, color balance

Why Lighting Audits Matter

Lighting isn’t just a utility—it’s a strategic asset in the garments industry. A proper lighting setup impacts everything from product quality to energy efficiency and brand perception. Here’s why a lighting audit is a must-have, not a nice-to-have.

1. Ensuring Accurate Color Evaluation

Color is everything in garments. A slight variation in hue or shade can lead to a rejected order or a customer return. Lighting audits help ensure that all areas involved in:

• Dyeing
• Cutting
• Stitching
• Final Inspection

are equipped with high Color Rendering Index (CRI) lighting (ideally CRI 90+), so colors appear true to life.

Example: A poorly lit QC zone using low-CRI fluorescent lights might make navy blue appear black—triggering unnecessary rework.

2. Spotting Defects Early

Dust, lint, oil stains, thread mismatches, and fabric tears are often tiny but costly. Proper lighting ensures visual tasks can be carried out quickly and accurately, reducing both:

• Defective outputs
• Inspection time

A lighting audit helps determine if current lux levels and fixture placements are sufficient for fine-detail inspection.

3. Enhancing Worker Productivity & Comfort

Workers are more productive in environments with:

• Consistent brightness
• Low glare
• No flicker
• Comfortable color temperature (CCT)

Lighting audits often reveal unbalanced zones or eye-straining hot spots. Correcting these leads to better focus and fewer fatigue-related errors.

4. Supporting Energy Savings & Sustainability

Lighting accounts for up to 40% of a factory’s electricity bill. A lighting audit identifies:

• Over-lit areas wasting energy
• Outdated fixtures consuming excess power
• Opportunities for switching to LED, smart controls, and daylight integration

This not only cuts costs but supports green certifications (e.g., LEED, ISO 50001) and corporate sustainability goals.

5. Boosting Customer Experience in Retail

For fashion brands and showrooms, lighting is part of the product experience.

• Good lighting enhances color, texture, and fit.
• Fitting rooms with soft, balanced lighting increase try-on confidence.
• Window displays with dynamic lighting attract more foot traffic.

A lighting audit ensures every corner aligns with the brand’s visual identity and helps reduce product returns caused by misleading presentation.

In short, a lighting audit is a strategic investment that improves everything from operational efficiency to customer satisfaction.

Core Components of a Lighting Audit

A successful lighting audit in the garments industry isn’t just a visual walkthrough—it’s a data-driven, structured assessment of how lighting performs in different environments. Each component plays a vital role in evaluating whether your lighting supports optimal quality, safety, and efficiency.

1. Light Measurement Tools & Metrics

To truly assess lighting performance, auditors rely on measurable data—not just gut feeling.

Key Metrics to Measure:

• Lux (Illuminance): Measures brightness at a specific surface (e.g., inspection tables should meet 750–1000 lux).
• Lumens (Luminous Flux): Total light emitted by a source.
• CRI (Color Rendering Index): Rates how accurately light reveals colors (90+ is ideal for garment inspection).
• CCT (Correlated Color Temperature): Defines the “warmth” or “coolness” of light in Kelvin. Neutral white (4000–5000 K) is generally best for factory floors.
• Flicker Rate: High flicker levels (even invisible ones) cause fatigue and quality issues.
• UGR (Unified Glare Rating): Indicates how much glare a fixture produces.

Tools Used:

• Lux meters
• Spectrometers
• CRI/CCT analyzers
• Flicker meters
• Smartphone apps (limited accuracy for quick assessments)

2. Inspection of Light Fixtures

Beyond light output, the physical condition and configuration of fixtures play a big role.

What to Check:

• Fixture Type: LED, fluorescent, halogen—are they still relevant and efficient?
• Condition: Yellowing lenses, broken reflectors, dust buildup
• Flickering or buzzing (common in aging fluorescent systems)
• Placement: Is the lighting aligned with workstations and visual tasks?
• Shielding & Diffusion: Prevent glare and hot spots
• Wiring, ballasts, drivers: Check for loose or degraded components

3. Layout & Light Distribution Evaluation

Lighting is about more than just brightness—it’s about even coverage.

Areas of Focus:

• Uniformity: Are workstations evenly lit or are there dark zones?
• Task vs. Ambient Lighting: Is there adequate task lighting where precision work happens?
• Layered Lighting: Retail spaces should use a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting.
• Shadows & Reflections: Especially in cutting and QC zones, shadows can lead to missed defects.

4. Electrical Safety & Maintenance Review

A lighting audit also identifies safety concerns and long-term maintenance issues.

Consider:

• Are all fixtures properly grounded and protected?
• Do logs exist for fixture replacements or energy use trends?
• Is there a scheduled maintenance plan in place?

5. Documentation & Baseline Setting

Everything observed during the audit should be documented to create a lighting performance baseline.

• Use a standardized checklist or Excel sheet
• Include photos and lux readings
• Log fixture types, wattages, and locations
• Create a “Before” map to compare post-upgrade improvements

By thoroughly evaluating each of these components, the lighting audit uncovers inefficiencies, safety issues, and upgrade opportunities that translate into cost savings, higher quality, and a better visual experience.

How to Conduct a Lighting Audit

Conducting a lighting audit may sound technical, but with a structured approach, it becomes a repeatable, efficient process. Whether you’re auditing a garments factory floor, a QC lab, or a retail showroom, the same principles apply. Below is a step-by-step method tailored for the garments industry.

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Define the Audit Scope

Identify the spaces to be audited:

• Production floor (cutting, sewing, packing)
• Quality control & inspection zones
• Warehousing and logistics
• Retail area or showroom
• Fitting rooms

Step 2: Gather the Right Tools

Essential tools include:

• Lux meter or smartphone lux app (for rough estimates)
• Spectrometer or light analyzer (to measure CRI & CCT)
• Floor layout map (digital or printed)
• Audit checklist or log sheet (Excel or template)
• Camera (to document fixture conditions)

Step 3: Conduct Field Measurements

In each zone:

• Measure light levels at working height (e.g., 3 ft above cutting tables)
• Log CRI and CCT values to ensure color accuracy
• Note uniformity and any flickering or dim zones
• Take multiple readings in different positions (left, center, right)

Benchmark:

Area	Target Lux	Ideal CRI	CCT Range
Sewing floor	500–750	80–90+	4000–5000 K
QC/Inspection table	750–1000	90+	5000–6500 K
Warehouse	200–300	70–80	4000 K
Fitting rooms	300–500	90+	3500–4500 K

Step 4: Inspect Fixtures & Conditions

Check:

• Fixture age and condition (yellowed lenses, dust, rust)
• Electrical safety (exposed wiring, loose fittings)
• Glare and shadow problems (especially for task lighting)
• Layout consistency across similar work zones
• Take clear before photos for each area audited.

Step 5: Identify Inefficiencies & Opportunities

Once all measurements and observations are complete:

• Highlight over-lit or under-lit zones
• Identify outdated or inefficient fixtures (e.g., fluorescent tubes, CFLs)
• Spot areas with high energy usage but low visual performance
• Look for opportunities to reduce glare, improve diffusion, or automate lighting (motion sensors, daylight sensors)

Tools & Templates

To standardize the process, use:

• Audit checklist with columns for fixture type, wattage, lux, CRI, CCT, condition
• Floor plan mapping to label measurement zones
• Summary report template with key findings and upgrade suggestions

Involve Key Stakeholders

For a successful audit:

• Collaborate with QC staff, machine operators, and maintenance team
• Ask for insights about problem areas (e.g., “I often can’t see thread colors clearly here.”)
• Include input from energy managers or sustainability officers

A lighting audit is not a one-time event—it’s the foundation for a lighting improvement strategy. When done right, it sets the stage for smart upgrades that improve quality, comfort, and energy use across the board.

Enhancing Results: Post-Audit Recommendations

Once your lighting audit is complete and you’ve gathered detailed findings, the next step is translating that data into actionable improvements. The goal isn’t just to fix problems—it’s to create a lighting system that adds value through precision, energy efficiency, and user experience.

Here’s how to turn your audit insights into meaningful upgrades.

1. Upgrade Fixtures and Light Sources

Modern LED technology offers unmatched advantages in energy efficiency, color accuracy, and lifespan.

Replace outdated lights with:

• High-CRI LED fixtures (90+) for QC zones and sampling areas
• Tunable white LEDs (adjustable CCT) for versatile retail lighting
• IP-rated LEDs in humid or dusty areas (e.g., dyeing or washing units)

Bonus: LED fixtures consume up to 60–80% less power than fluorescent or halogen.

Consider:

• Linear batten LEDs for inspection tables
• Recessed panels or track lights in retail zones
• Anti-glare diffused lighting for sewing and cutting lines

2. Optimize Light Layout and Distribution

Even if fixtures are efficient, poor placement causes glare, shadows, or uneven brightness.

Adjust layout by:

• Repositioning fixtures over workstations for focused illumination
• Using diffusers or reflectors to reduce harsh shadows
• Creating zoned lighting: ambient (general), task (focused), accent (visual appeal)

QC Tip: Add double-sided lighting or light boxes to reduce fabric shadowing during inspection.

3. Integrate Smart Lighting Controls

Upgrading hardware is just the beginning. Adding controls can make your system smarter and more responsive.

Smart features to consider:

• Motion sensors for storage or low-use zones
• Daylight harvesting to adjust brightness based on natural light
• Timers and scheduling to prevent after-hours energy waste
• Dimming controls for fitting rooms or break areas

Result: These systems reduce unnecessary usage and improve user comfort automatically.

4. Establish a Maintenance Plan

Lighting performance degrades over time due to dust buildup, aging drivers, or component failure. Create a simple maintenance strategy to preserve long-term performance.

Include:

• Monthly visual inspection of fixtures
• Bi-annual lux level rechecks in critical zones
• Dusting or cleaning schedule
• Spare parts inventory for rapid replacement

Document all changes to keep a clear trail of upgrades, costs, and benefits for reporting or audits.

5. Track Energy and Performance Gains

After implementing upgrades:

• Compare energy bills from before and after the changes
• Survey QC and production teams for feedback on visibility and comfort
• Log reject rates or rework improvements linked to better inspection lighting

Over time, this data reinforces the value of the investment and supports further improvements.

Lighting upgrades after an audit can lead to:

• 20–60% energy cost savings
• Enhanced product quality control
• Higher employee satisfaction
• Better retail conversions and reduced product returns

With just a few strategic steps, your garments facility or store can move from “adequate” to optimized, with lighting as a quiet force behind it all.

Case Studies & Real-World Examples

Lighting audits may sound theoretical, but their impact becomes crystal clear when seen in action. Here are real-world examples and case study scenarios from garments factories and retail setups that demonstrate how strategic lighting improvements—guided by audits—deliver measurable results.

Factory QC Zone: From Fluorescent Fatigue to LED Precision

Background:

A mid-sized garments factory in Dhaka conducted a lighting audit focused on its QC and finishing areas. The audit revealed:

• Lux levels were averaging 300–400—well below the 750+ needed for fine inspection.
• CRI values were around 70, causing inspectors to miss minor shade defects.
• Lights flickered subtly, increasing worker fatigue and error rates.

Actions Taken:

• Replaced 4-ft fluorescent tubes with LED batten lights (CRI 90+, 6500K).
• Repositioned fixtures for even light distribution over inspection tables.
• Installed diffusers to reduce harsh shadows.

Results:

• 45% improvement in color-shading accuracy
• 25% reduction in garment rechecks and reworks
• QC operators reported lower eye strain and faster inspection times

Retail Fitting Room: Lighting That Sells More

Background:

A fashion retail chain noticed high try-on abandonment and product returns. A lighting audit of their fitting rooms revealed:

• Overhead-only lighting created harsh shadows on faces and garments
• CCT was too cool (7000K), making warm-toned garments look dull or off-tone
• No dimming control for different times of day

Actions Taken:

• Installed three-point lighting in fitting rooms (front, side, and overhead)
• Switched to adjustable CCT LEDs (3500–4500K)
• Added dimmers and auto-adjusting brightness based on ambient light

Results:

• 18% increase in conversion rate inside fitting rooms
• 12% decrease in garment returns due to “poor in-store appearance”
• Positive customer feedback on the shopping experience

Warehouse Area: Smart Controls for Energy Savings

Background:

A garments exporter with 24/7 warehousing operations wanted to reduce energy costs. A lighting audit found:

• High-power metal halide lights ran continuously
• No zoning or motion control
• Many spaces were over-lit and underutilized at night

Actions Taken:

• Replaced all metal halides with LED high-bays with motion sensors
• Installed daylight sensors near skylights
• Set automated schedules for non-peak periods

Results:

• 58% reduction in energy consumption
• Improved light quality and safety in aisles
• ROI achieved in under 9 months

Cutting & Stitching Floor: Layout Optimization

Background:

• A garments production unit had inconsistently lit sewing lines—some overexposed, others dim.

Audit Findings:

• Mixed fixture types (CFL, T5, old LEDs) created uneven brightness
• Workers were rearranging fixtures manually
• High shadows on fabric created frequent sewing misalignments

Actions Taken:

• Standardized layout using uniform LED panels
• Reduced distance between fixtures and workstations
• Used diffused linear lights with low glare

Results:

• 32% improvement in stitching accuracy
• Reduced absenteeism due to visual fatigue
• Better line balancing and throughput

These real-world examples show that lighting audits are more than just inspections—they’re strategic tools that drive performance, comfort, and profitability in both production and retail.

Cost vs Benefit Analysis

One of the most common concerns for factories and retailers considering a lighting audit is cost. But when weighed against the long-term gains, a lighting audit followed by targeted upgrades almost always yields substantial returns.

This section breaks down the costs you might incur—and the benefits you’re likely to gain.

Upfront Costs of a Lighting Audit

A basic lighting audit is relatively low-cost, especially when compared to mechanical or energy audits. Costs may include:

Item	Approximate Cost Range
Professional audit service	$300–$2,000 (depending on scope)
In-house audit tools	$100–$500 (lux meter, spectrometer)
Labor (in-house time)	Minimal if done internally

Lighting Upgrade Costs

The cost of implementing recommendations depends on the scale and complexity of your space:

Upgrade Type	Typical Cost per Unit (USD)
Standard LED tube	$5–15
LED panel/batten	$20–40
High-bay LED for warehouse	$100–300
Smart control systems	$150–500 per zone
Installation labor	$0.50–2.00 per sq. ft.

Larger factories may invest $5,000–$50,000+, while small units can make meaningful changes for under $1,000.

Quantifiable Benefits

Lighting audits consistently lead to measurable outcomes, such as:

Benefit	Typical Improvement
Energy cost savings	30%–60%
Quality inspection accuracy	20%–45%
Reduced garment returns	10%–20%
Worker productivity & comfort	Hard to quantify, but real
Lighting maintenance costs	↓ up to 80% (with LEDs)

Payback Period

Most garment businesses recover their investment within 6 to 18 months through energy savings alone. Add quality improvements and fewer returns, and the payback often comes even sooner.

Example Scenario:

• Investment: $8,000
• Monthly energy savings: $600
• QC defect reduction = $300/month gain
• Total monthly benefit: $900
• Payback in less than 9 months

Intangible & Long-Term Benefits

Beyond immediate financial returns, lighting upgrades offer:

• Enhanced brand reputation (especially in retail)
• Improved worker satisfaction and retention
• Support for sustainability certifications
• A more professional and aesthetically pleasing workspace

When viewed as a strategic business investment, a lighting audit pays for itself many times over—in both measurable savings and less visible, yet equally valuable, improvements.

Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them

While lighting audits and upgrades offer big returns, certain common mistakes can reduce effectiveness or even create new problems. Being aware of these pitfalls helps you avoid costly missteps.

1. Overlooking Glare and Shadows

• Problem: Installing overly bright or poorly diffused lights can create harsh glare or deep shadows.
• Impact: Worker discomfort, difficulty spotting defects, and uneven lighting zones.
• Solution: Use diffusers, choose fixtures with low Unified Glare Rating (UGR), and plan layered lighting to balance ambient and task light.

2. Mismatched Color Temperature (CCT) Across Zones

• Problem: Using inconsistent CCTs (e.g., cool white in production, warm white in QC) can mislead color perception.
• Impact: Increased error rates in color matching and inspection.
• Solution: Standardize lighting color temperature according to zone function—neutral to cool white (4000-6500K) for inspection; warm whites for retail ambience.

3. Ignoring Maintenance Needs

• Problem: Dirty lenses, flickering lights, and aging components degrade lighting quality over time.
• Impact: Reduced visibility and increased energy use.
• Solution: Implement regular cleaning, inspection, and fixture replacement schedules as part of your lighting maintenance plan.

4. Neglecting Worker Input

• Problem: Technical audits done without consulting QC or production staff may miss practical lighting issues.
• Impact: Upgrades that don’t solve real problems or reduce productivity.
• Solution: Engage workers during the audit to identify pain points and test proposed solutions before full implementation.

5. Over-Reliance on Visual Inspection Without Data

• Problem: Relying solely on subjective assessment instead of using lux meters and CRI measurements.
• Impact: Inaccurate evaluation leads to ineffective or incomplete upgrades.
• Solution: Use objective measurement tools to establish a baseline and track improvements quantitatively.

6. Skipping Safety Checks

• Problem: Failing to check wiring, fixture stability, and electrical safety during the audit.
• Impact: Increased risk of electrical hazards and equipment failure.
• Solution: Incorporate electrical safety checks and compliance as part of every audit.

By proactively addressing these pitfalls, you can ensure your lighting audit and upgrades deliver the intended benefits—boosting quality, comfort, and savings without unintended side effects.

Best Practices Checklist

To maximize the effectiveness of your lighting audit and ensure ongoing lighting quality in your garments facility or retail space, keep these best practices in mind:

• Define clear audit scope: Target critical zones like QC, sewing lines, and fitting rooms first.
• Use proper tools: Lux meters, CRI testers, and spectrometers provide objective data.
• Measure multiple points: Check light levels at several spots in each area to identify unevenness.
• Prioritize high CRI lighting: Use fixtures with CRI 90+ where accurate color evaluation is essential.
• Standardize CCT per zone: Neutral white (4000–5000K) for production, warmer tones for retail spaces.
• Check for glare and shadows: Use diffusers and proper fixture placement to minimize discomfort.
• Include electrical safety: Inspect wiring, ballasts, and fixture stability during the audit.
• Document thoroughly: Record lux levels, fixture types, conditions, and photos for future comparison.
• Involve stakeholders: Get input from QC, maintenance, and production teams for practical insights.
• Plan upgrades strategically: Prioritize LED replacements and smart controls for energy efficiency.
• Implement a maintenance schedule: Regular cleaning, inspections, and timely replacements prevent degradation.
• Track results: Monitor energy use, quality improvements, and worker feedback after upgrades.
• Re-audit periodically: Schedule audits every 6–12 months to maintain optimal lighting conditions.

Future Trends in Garment Lighting Audits

As technology and industry needs evolve, lighting audits in the garments sector are becoming more sophisticated and impactful. Here are some key trends shaping the future:

1. AI-Driven Lighting Analytics

• Advanced sensors combined with AI can monitor light levels, flicker, and color rendering in real time.
• These systems alert facility managers to deviations or failures, enabling predictive maintenance.
• AI optimizes lighting automatically based on workflow patterns and natural light availability.

2. Circadian Lighting for Worker Well-being

• Lighting systems that mimic natural daylight cycles improve worker alertness and mood.
• Adjusting CCT and brightness throughout shifts reduces fatigue and enhances productivity.
• Especially relevant for night shifts or windowless factory areas.

3. Integrated Data Platforms

• Lighting audits will increasingly feed into broader energy management and quality control dashboards.
• Centralized platforms allow tracking of lighting performance alongside production KPIs and sustainability goals.

4. Smart, Connected LEDs

• LEDs with embedded sensors and wireless connectivity allow granular control and monitoring.
• Facilitate advanced features like zoning, occupancy sensing, and daylight harvesting in garment factories and stores.

5. Sustainability-Driven Standards

• Growing emphasis on green certifications will make lighting audits mandatory in many regions.
• Energy codes and incentives will push adoption of efficient lighting solutions and audits as standard practice.

6. Augmented Reality (AR) Assisted Audits

• AR devices can overlay lighting data and recommendations onto real-world views.
• This technology makes audits faster, more accurate, and easier to communicate with stakeholders.

By embracing these innovations, garments businesses can make lighting audits a dynamic, continuous process—driving ongoing improvements in quality, energy efficiency, and worker well-being.

Conclusion

A lighting audit in the garments industry may seem like a small step, but its impact is far-reaching. From enhancing the precision of color matching and defect detection to boosting worker comfort and slashing energy costs, good lighting is a foundational element that supports quality, efficiency, and profitability.

By systematically assessing your current lighting conditions and making smart, data-driven upgrades—especially with modern LED technologies and smart controls—you can achieve significant returns on investment in a relatively short time.

Whether in the factory’s QC room, the bustling sewing floor, or the retail fitting room, proper lighting transforms how garments are made, inspected, and presented to customers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How often should a lighting audit be done in a garments facility?

A: It’s recommended to conduct a lighting audit every 6 to 12 months to ensure optimal lighting performance and address any degradation or layout changes.

Q2: What is the ideal CRI and CCT for garment inspection lighting?

A: For accurate color evaluation, use lighting with a CRI of 90 or above and a correlated color temperature (CCT) between 4000K and 6500K (neutral to cool white).

Q3: Can smart lighting reduce the workload of lighting audits?

A: Yes, smart lighting systems with sensors and AI can continuously monitor lighting conditions, alerting managers to issues and reducing the need for frequent manual audits.

Q4: How much does it typically cost to upgrade lighting in a garments factory?

A: Costs vary based on scale, but LED upgrades can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. Energy savings and quality improvements usually lead to payback within 6 to 18 months.

Q5: What tools do I need to perform a basic lighting audit?

A: Essential tools include a lux meter, CRI/CCT measurement device (or spectrometer), an audit checklist, and a camera to document conditions.

Q6: How does poor lighting affect garment quality?

A: Poor lighting can cause missed defects, inaccurate color matching, increased rework, and higher product returns, ultimately hurting brand reputation and profits.

Q7: Are lighting audits mandatory for garment factories?

A: While not always mandatory, many industries and green building certifications encourage or require lighting audits as part of energy and quality management.