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Phone(613) 9898 5319
admin 05 Nov 2026
Commissioning of sports lighting systems refers to the systematic measurement and adjustments of a new lighting system as per the original engineering designs. It marks the transition from the installation of the physical system to an operable, safe sports ground.
In this blog we will talk about what clubs should check before the handover. The key pre-handover checks include illumination levels, light uniformity, glare, fixture aiming, lighting controls and their verification against project specifications and applicable standards.
Conducting comprehensive tests prior to handover offers protection for the players and ensures value for clubs' money.
Five major operational areas need to be tested before accepting the handing over of the sports ground. They include:
There are certain checks that need to be done by the clubs before accepting any handover. Below are the important checks to be noted.
The first thing to check is the lighting. Lighting needs to be assessed in the playing field. Lighting needs to have adequate light that enables playing on that field.
The lighting test will reveal those parts that are not well lit and also those that have excess lighting. This assessment needs to agree with the project plan and be up to the required standard of the sport. Sports field lighting enables the players to see the ball and also other players.
Light uniformity refers to the even distribution of light on the playing field. It is one of the essential factors in sport lighting tests. Light uniformity may lead to the appearance of bright and dark spots. This will complicate the process of ball tracking.
The test should involve the whole playing area. The centre of the field, the edge, and critical areas for games should be included. In case the test shows lack of light uniformity, adjustments of the fixtures may be required.
Glare can cause difficulties for players in seeing things properly. This usually happens when a bright light falls into the path of their vision. When doing your commissioning checks, test the lights from important viewing positions such as those of the players and spectators.
Check whether there is light spilling outside the playing field. This light may affect the people living near the sports facility. Outdoor sports lighting needs to provide good illumination of the playing field while keeping glare and light spill minimal.
Each fixture needs to be directed in the correct direction. Improper directing can impact illumination levels and cause glare problems. The crew will review each fitting in comparison with the approved plan. Loose fitting and other observable issues should be noted.
In case of improper directing, the fixture may require adjustment. After that, the testing process will have to be repeated. Proper directing makes sure that the system operates as intended. It also helps prevent unnecessary illumination outside the field.
Every sport requires different lighting conditions. The lighting system should fit the intended use of the area.
The lighting for the netball court should be uniformly lit throughout. This is necessary for viewing the ball and other players on the court.
Lighting should be tested all over the netball court, particularly the edges and the goal areas. Glare from the primary playing positions should also be checked.
Tennis court lighting should have proper aiming and uniform lighting. Players should be able to track the movement of the ball on the court.
Lighting for the whole tennis court should be checked, especially for glare, which might affect the play of the players.
All sports that are supposed to be played in the multipurpose facility should be checked in terms of lighting.
Commissioning allows the club to take advantage of their lights. It can also help you identify any problems before players even start playing.
Commissioning of sports lighting should include the assessment of the lighting level and uniformity. It should also involve glare, aim and control assessment. It is important for the team to verify all the results in regard to the requirements of the project. They should also verify the applicable standards.
At SES Lighting, we know the requirements of the sports club. We will help you plan your sports lighting installation based on your field needs and adhere to sports lighting compliance of Australian standards.
Want to plan your next project or improve your existing lighting system? Call us at SES Lighting to discuss your sports lighting testing requirements.