What is the difference between full cut-off and glare shields?
Full cut-off fixtures are designed so that all light is directed downward, with no light emitted above the horizontal plane. This makes them highly effective at reducing light pollution, glare, and sky glow at the source. In contrast, glare shields are accessories fitted to existing luminaires to control or block unwanted light spill without replacing the entire fitting. Both aim to improve light direction, but they achieve it at different points in the lighting design.
What is a full cut-off fixture?
A full cut-off fixture is a lighting design where the luminaire is engineered so that no light is emitted upward or at high angles. All illumination is directed downward onto roads, paths, or target areas. This type of fixture is commonly used in modern LED street lighting to improve efficiency, reduce glare, and comply with dark sky and environmental lighting standards.
When should you use glare shields instead of replacing fittings?
Light spill shields for street lights are typically used when existing street lights or area lights are still functional but need improved light control. Instead of replacing the entire fixture with a full cut-off luminaire, shields offer a cost-effective retrofit solution. They are ideal for reducing light spill, glare, and neighbour disturbance without major infrastructure upgrades.
