Many of the world’s top hockey players begin practicing at a young age, dedicating countless hours to the game on both indoor and outdoor fields as they grow. As they progress, ensuring safety becomes a top priority, especially as they select their preferred playing positions.
The lighting design of a hockey stadium is crucial in maintaining both safety and optimal play conditions. By incorporating LED lights and carefully planning the layout according to current regulations, the risk of any hazards on the hockey pitch can be minimized. However, some aspects of these standards can be complex. This concise guide aims to clarify the rules, making it easier to understand and implement them effectively.
Lighting Fixtures Used in Field Hockey Pitches
High Power Flood Lights
High power flood lights are a fundamental component in field hockey lighting. These versatile lights are suitable for various locations within a stadium, such as ceilings, walls, or bases. What makes flood lights particularly effective is their broad beam angle, which provides excellent short-range illumination. Modern LED flood lights typically consist of nine essential parts:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Protective Tempered Glass | Shields the LED chip and internal components from external damage |
| LED Chip | The core element responsible for producing light |
| Aluminum Reflector | Directs and enhances the light output |
| Silicone Ring | Ensures a tight seal to protect internal components |
| Aluminum Housing | Provides a sturdy structure for the light and assists in heat dissipation |
| G Shape Buckle | Secures the housing components together |
| Protection Cover for Screw | Adds an extra layer of protection for screws, enhancing durability |
| Driver | Controls the power supply and ensures consistent performance |
| Bracket | Facilitates mounting and positioning of the flood light |
High Mast Lights
High mast lighting is another effective solution for field hockey pitches, particularly for larger fields where elevated lighting is necessary. These lights are mounted on tall masts, allowing for broad coverage and reduced light pole locations. The primary advantage of high mast lighting is the improved visibility and uniform vertical illumination it offers.
Unlike standard reflectors such as flood and spot lights, high mast lights focus on directing light precisely where it’s needed, minimizing light pollution. This is achieved through advanced optic lenses that help meet minimal tilt requirements and reduce glare for spectators, players, and umpires. However, care must be taken to ensure that these lights do not cause disturbances for nearby residents or drivers.
The benefits of high mast lighting include not only better visibility but also reductions in operating and maintenance costs, initial material expenses, and installation costs, thanks to their efficient design and layout.
Spot Lighting
Spot lighting is primarily used to provide additional illumination over large areas of the hockey field, enhancing horizontal uniformity or focusing on specific spots, such as the penalty spot inside the shooting circle. These lights are essential for eliminating shadows, especially in critical areas like the goal area or the center of the field at the start of each game.
A typical spot light resembles a flood light but includes a lens rotating ring that allows for beam adjustment. This feature enables users to narrow or widen the beam as needed, making spot lights ideal for long-range use. They can be mounted on various surfaces within the stadium or on dedicated stands, particularly for larger, professional-grade spot lights.
High Bay Lights (Indoor Use Only)
High bay lights are commonly used in indoor hockey facilities. These lights feature an acrylic or aluminum dome with a ballast box above it. Traditionally, metal halide high bay lights were used, but they have since been replaced by more energy-efficient LED versions.
Most high bay lights operate within a wattage range of 100 to 400 Watts and typically use a mogul base. LED retrofit units with a mogul adapter allow for easy replacement of older metal halide light sources, making the transition to LED lighting straightforward and efficient. Installation of these retrofit units usually takes only 15 to 20 minutes per fixture.
High bay lights provide vertical illumination, making them essential for indoor pitches where multiple fixtures are required depending on the lighting style and pitch dimensions. Many indoor facilities, especially those with multi-sports turf pitches, require at least fourteen high bay lights to meet standard lighting requirements.
Panel Lights (Indoor Use Only)
Panel lights are frequently used for indoor hockey stadiums to provide widespread illumination while minimizing glare. These lights have a large emitting surface that distributes light evenly across the pitch. Inside the panel light casing, a layer of white reflective material enhances light diffusion and efficiency.
The typical components of a panel light include:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Sturdy Aluminum Housing | Provides a durable and heat-resistant structure |
| SMD LED (Surface-Mount Device) | The light-emitting component, which may include diffuser lenses and polarizing films |
| Surface Mounting Frame | Allows for easy installation on various surfaces |
Solar LED Lights
Solar LED lights are an environmentally friendly and cost-effective option for recreational field hockey pitches. These lights are powered by solar panels that convert sunlight into electricity. Each fixture typically includes a solar panel or module, which charges during the day and powers the lights at night.
Solar lights are particularly beneficial for outdoor pitches where wiring may be impractical. They offer flexibility in installation, as portable models can be placed wherever needed without the need for extensive setup. However, regular maintenance, such as cleaning the solar modules to remove dust and debris, is essential to ensure optimal performance.
While solar LED lights are generally recommended for recreational use due to their lower power output, they can significantly reduce operating costs over time. Consulting with a lighting designer is crucial to ensure these lights meet the minimum standards required for training and other activities. Additionally, their portability makes them a versatile lighting solution that can be repurposed for different needs.
What are the Lighting Requirements of the Hockey Pitch?
Lux and Footcandle Standard
To achieve adequate brightness on the hockey field, it’s essential to understand the concepts of lux and footcandles. The farther away you get from a light source, the lower the light level on a given surface. To maintain proper lighting, you may need to increase light intensity by adding more fixtures or replacing the current light sources with more powerful ones.
Lux and footcandles provide a standard measure of brightness that does not change with distance, making them crucial for consistent lighting across the field. Lux is used in the Metric System, representing lumens per square meter, while footcandles are used in the Imperial System, representing candelas per square foot. The conversion rate between footcandles and lux is 1 footcandle = 10.76 lux.
| Event Type | Horizontal Illuminance (Eh) | Vertical Illuminance (Ev) |
|---|---|---|
| Training Sessions | 200 lux | – |
| Low-Grade Club Competitions | 250 lux | – |
| National and International Competitions | 500 lux | – |
| Regional Matches | 800 to 1000 lux | At least 750 lux |
| National Events | 1500 to 3000 lux | At least 1400 lux |
| International Matches | 1500 to 3000 lux | At least 2000 lux |
The lux requirement varies depending on whether the event is televised or non-televised. For non-televised events, the standard lux levels are lower. Training sessions require 200 lux, and low-grade club competitions need 250 lux. National and international competitions should have a minimum of 500 lux.
For televised matches, higher lux standards are necessary, including vertical illuminance. For regional matches, a horizontal illuminance (Eh) of 800 to 1000 lux and a vertical illuminance (Ev) of at least 750 lux are required. National events need Eh between 1,500 and 3,000 lux and Ev of at least 1,400 lux. International matches should maintain an Eh between 1,500 and 3,000 lux and Ev of at least 2,000 lux.
All these lux values should be maintained consistently during the game, ensuring no fluctuations in light quality.
Lighting Uniformity Requirement
After achieving the desired lux value, it’s important to ensure that light distribution is uniform across the hockey pitch. A player should not encounter dimly lit areas while moving across the field, as this would disrupt the game and create unfair advantages.
Lighting uniformity is assessed by dividing the field into a grid and taking lux readings at various points. These readings are then used to calculate overall uniformity (Uo) and longitudinal uniformity (Ul). Ul is calculated by dividing the lowest reading by the highest reading, while Uo is determined by dividing the lowest reading by the average reading.
Uniformity measurements are taken both horizontally on the ground and vertically at the players’ height. The required uniformity values differ for non-televised and televised games:
| Competition Type | Ul (Horizontal and Vertical) | Uo (Horizontal and Vertical) |
|---|---|---|
| Training, Local, National, International Competitions | 0.5 | 0.7 |
| Televised Regional and National Competitions | 0.65 | 0.7 |
| Televised International Competitions | 0.7 | 0.8 |
Color Temperature
Color temperature, measured in Kelvin (K), describes the warmth or coolness of light. A temperature of 3,000 K produces a warm white light, 4,000 K gives a neutral white light, and 6,000 K results in a cool white light.
For hockey stadiums, the color temperature should be above 4,000 K, with 5,000 K being the most common as it closely resembles daylight. This standard applies to all levels of competition and broadcasting requirements. LED lights are preferred for their flexibility in adjusting color temperature, while traditional light sources like metal halide and halogen bulbs have fixed color temperatures that may not meet modern standards.
Color Rendering Index (CRI)
The CRI measures how accurately a light source renders colors compared to natural sunlight, which has a CRI of 100 Ra. High-quality lighting is essential in a hockey stadium to ensure that colors such as the grass, uniforms, and ball appear vibrant and true to life.
A minimum CRI of 65 Ra is required for playing hockey, but LED lights with a CRI of 95 Ra or higher are recommended for the best color rendering and long-lasting performance. Lower-quality lights with a CRI below 50 Ra can result in dull and inaccurate color representation.
Anti-Glare
Glare control is crucial in outdoor hockey venues to ensure that players can perform at their best without being blinded by the lights. A glare rating of less than 50 should be maintained at all times.
High-mast lighting and spotlights should be positioned carefully to minimize glare and avoid light spill, which can affect both players and spectators. Adjusting the tilt angle and using shieldings can help mitigate these issues. In indoor stadiums, glare can be controlled by using indirect lighting and wider beam angles to distribute light evenly without creating harsh reflections.
Flicker-Free Lighting (for Broadcasting)
Flicker in LED lights refers to the rapid modulation of light output, which is often imperceptible to the human eye but can be captured by video cameras, leading to poor image quality, especially during slow-motion replays.
Flicker-free LED lights are designed with components that eliminate flicker, ensuring high-quality broadcasting and a comfortable viewing experience. While flicker-free lights may be more expensive, they are better for both image quality and the well-being of people exposed to the lighting.
An alternative to flicker-free LED lights is using direct current (DC) instead of alternating current (AC), as DC provides a constant power supply without the fluctuations that cause flicker.
How to Achieve the Best Lighting Design for the Hockey Field
Designing effective lighting for a hockey field requires adherence to current regulations and a thorough understanding of various factors. Here is a guide to achieving the best lighting design for your hockey pitch:
Understand the Field’s Use and Requirements
Determining the level of play and whether the matches will be broadcasted is crucial for designing the lighting. Establishing a clear budget is essential to guide the selection of lighting solutions. It is important to consult a professional lighting engineer to create an initial design and layout. If the games will be televised, collaborate with architects and media outlets to incorporate any necessary modifications. Integrate either existing or new lighting solutions to ensure accuracy and ease of maintenance. Finally, perform calibration tests after installation to confirm that all lighting criteria are met.
Hockey Pitch Lighting Layout
Light Pole Height
The height of the light poles must be adjusted according to the layout and number of poles used. Efficient high-mast lighting design minimizes light spill and maximizes illumination.
For a full-size hockey field, there are three common layouts:
| Layout | Description | Side Pole Height | Corner Pole Height | Setback From Field Boundary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4-Pole Layout | Includes four poles at the corners of the field. Side poles reach up to 18 meters, and corner poles up to 21 meters. | Up to 18 meters | Up to 21 meters | 5 meters |
| 6-Pole Layout | Provides better coverage, especially for the midfield area, allowing midfielders to play more effectively. | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| 8-Pole Layout | Offers the best coverage and uniformity, enhancing playability and reducing shadows for defenders and attackers. | Up to 15 meters | Up to 15 meters | 5 meters |
For hockey5s courts, the light poles along the sidelines should be 12 meters tall, while those in the corners can be up to 15 meters. A 3-meter setback from the field boundary is necessary.
Number of Light Poles
The number of light poles significantly impacts the quality of illumination:
| Layout | Description | Pole Placement | Height and Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-Pole Layout | Most affordable, often used in outdoor multi-sport facilities and parks. Includes four poles placed either at the corners or along the sides. | Corners or Sides | Side poles up to 18 meters, corner poles up to 21 meters |
| 6-Pole Layout | Enhances lighting in the central area of the field, improving visibility for players and spectators. | Typically at corners and sides | Height varies, generally higher than 4-pole layout |
| 8-Pole Layout | Provides comprehensive coverage with minimal shadows, ideal for high-level competitions. | Distributed around the field | Poles up to 15 meters, ensuring optimal playability |
For hockey5s courts, a 4-pole or 6-pole layout is usually sufficient.
Position of Light Poles
Light poles must be positioned outside the overrun area to ensure player safety. Maintain a space of at least 5 meters beyond the backlines and 6 meters from the sidelines. For a full-size hockey pitch, the 4-pole layout may omit corner poles and place the poles near the 25-yard lines. With more poles, the focus shifts to central illumination, enhancing visual comfort for both players and spectators. The 8-pole layout provides the best coverage, reducing shadows and improving playability. For hockey5s courts, four corner poles may be sufficient, with the option to add two additional poles along the centerline for improved lighting.
Ceiling Height (Indoor Hockey Pitch Lighting)
For indoor hockey pitches, the ceiling height influences the lighting design. Low ceilings require recessed and surface-mounted fixtures, while high ceilings may use pendant fixtures with longer cords. The goal is to ensure good visibility, eliminate shadows, and avoid glare, using high-CRI light sources for accurate color rendering. For televised matches, coordinate closely with broadcasters to meet their specific lighting requirements based on camera equipment and production techniques.
Metal Halide to LED Replacement for Hockey Field Lights
Metal halide (MH) lighting has been the standard for the last three decades, but LED technology now offers a more energy-efficient and cost-effective alternative. LEDs provide a longer lifespan, ensuring better lumen maintenance over time. Lumen maintenance refers to the loss of light output that cannot be recovered, typically due to overheating or variations in supply voltage. The lumen maintenance curve for each light source is predictable, with LEDs demonstrating superior performance in this aspect.
LEDs continue to advance with improvements in microchip technology, leading to reduced heat output and fewer issues related to overheating and burnout. Here is a comparative analysis of metal halide and LED lighting options for hockey fields:
| Aspect | Metal Halide | LED |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Typically cheaper initially | Higher initial cost, but more cost-effective over time |
| Directionality | Limited beam angle, often greater than 360 degrees | Better control over beam angle, more directional |
| Running Costs | Higher due to energy consumption | Significantly lower, with potential for up to 50% savings |
| Maintenance | High, due to multiple components and frequent failures | Lower, as LEDs are compact and require periodic cleaning and realignment |
| Cooling Period | Requires 10 to 30 minutes to cool down | Instant start with no cooling period necessary |
| Dimming Capability | Complex and less efficient | Easier and more flexible with modern dimmable options |
Hockey Pitch Lighting Considerations
Light Pole Height
For optimal illuminance and reduced operating costs, the height of the light poles is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of recommended heights based on the number of poles and layout:
| Layout | Side Poles Height | Corner Poles Height | Setback from Boundary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-Pole | 18 meters | 21 meters | 5 meters |
| 6-Pole | 18 meters | 21 meters | 5 meters |
| 8-Pole | 15 meters | 15 meters | 5 meters |
| Hockey5s Court | 12 meters | 15 meters | 3 meters |
Wattage Requirements
The wattage needed for hockey pitch lighting can vary significantly based on several factors. The typical range is from 12,000 to 180,000 watts, influenced by:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Lux Levels | Determines the brightness needed, varying based on whether matches are televised or not. |
| Lighting Uniformity | Refers to the evenness of light distribution across the field, impacting visibility and playability. |
| Level of Competition | Higher competition levels require more precise and higher-quality lighting to meet performance standards. |
| Number of Spectators | More spectators may require brighter lighting to ensure visibility and enhance the viewing experience. |
| Surrounding Environment | Factors such as ambient light pollution or field location can influence the lighting needs and design. |
Cost of Hockey Field Lighting
The cost for installing hockey field lighting generally ranges from $10,000 to $200,000, varying based on field size, pole height, and other key factors. Maintenance costs also differ accordingly. Investing in outdoor solar lighting or replacing existing metal halide fixtures with LEDs can lead to significant savings in the long term. Additionally, optimizing the lighting design and consulting with experts can further enhance cost-efficiency and performance.
Conclusion
Optimizing hockey field lighting involves careful consideration of lux levels, lighting uniformity, competition level, spectator needs, and the surrounding environment. Each factor plays a crucial role in ensuring effective visibility and performance, making expert consultation essential for achieving the best results.