Using Light Reflectance Value (LRV) in your compliance design: Managing contrast in a building

Edwin Sim • May 23, 2025

Visually impaired people (VIP) encounter difficulties with perception of environments in everyday life. A door on a wall or a column on a station might be easily detected and seen, but it is an invisible hazard for VIP. With this in mind, Contrast therefore is an essential and vital tool for VIP to navigate in this world (Bright et al; 1997, Dalke et al; 2004).

 

There are five key factors, according to Dalke and Conduit; 2010, which affect visual acuity (including contrast), for assessing the visibility of designs in a real world context. The colour contrast assessment model, developed by Dalke and Conduit enables designers, builders, consultants, developers to predict before and after installation whether a VIP is able to see an object, text or element of a building component.

 

As outlined in AS1428.1 (2009) and AS 1428.4.1 (2009), contrast measurement is vital in building guidelines for design of environments and services for VIP. Therein the standards, the Light Reflectance Value (LRV) measurement must be measured using either a colourimter or a spectrophotometer with diffused illumination using Illuminant D65. LRV is measured through the visible colour spectrum, which is beyond what can be distinguished by the human eye alone.


Measurement of LRV refers to both colour and appearance of the sample and uses geometric principles that relate to additional attributes such as gloss or shine. Spectrophotometers that are used to measure these characteristics typically utilises:


  • Diffuse d/8° Sphere, specular reflectance included
  • Diffuse d/8° Sphere, specular reflectance excluded


In addition, the instrument has to be capable of measuring CIE for Yxy colour space. The measured LRV is defined by the tristimulus value Y. The chromaticity coordinates x and y provide an indication of the colour.


LRV – A life saving tool. Speak with us on how you could assess and map your “good colour contrast” roadmap.


X-Rite in Australia and New Zealand. Colouring the world with Novasys Group since 2018.

Leneta at the 2025 European Coatings Show

By Ron C • February 25, 2025
In March 2025, The Leneta Company, Inc, one of the world's leaders in the manufacture and supply of test charts for the Coatings industries, will be attending the European Coatings Show. Meet David Schaeffer, the Vice-President of Leneta, at the stand of Leneta's German distributor, Krahn Chemie, In Hall 4A Stand 4A-238. Drop by to discuss your substrate requirements, and to learn how Leneta charts and applicators can help you improve the quality and repeatability of your laboratory paint and ink sampling.

Glenammer introduces a new Consistometer

By Ron C • February 25, 2025
Glenammer is excited to introduce their new Consistometer, proudly made in the UK. Specifically designed for accurate flow measurements in semi-viscous liquids like ketchup and sauces, it reflects Glenammer's same commitment to quality as our sieves. Key Features of the Glenammer Consistometer: 24cm. Engraved Graduations in 0.5 cm Divisions. Length - 24cm: Trough length - 24cm: 240 mm Width: 88 mm Height: 104 mm Rear strengthening bar built in as standard, to increase durability. Laser etched scale is longer lasting, wear and smear resistant assuring accurate results. Additional spirit level so that you can double check accuracy prior to use.

Glenammer Sieves and Analogue & Digital Shakers now available from Novasys

By Ron C • February 25, 2025
Glenammer, UK, is recognised globally for supplying test sieves and GEM shakers into a wide and diverse range of industry sectors as well as laboratories, universities and test environments. Glenammer woven wire sieves are some of the world's most widely used test sieves, using the finest mesh available to make the best quality test sieves. ​Glenammer woven wire sieves are manufactured to comply with B.S. 410/I.S.O. 3310 standard and ASTM E11:20 standard. ​Woven wire sieves can be used in various applications including petroleum, pharmaceutical, sand, soil, paint, chemical raw feed, food, coal, agricultural products, seeds, plants, transfer material, metal powders, fertilizers, glass, building materials, resin and so on. Glenammer also manufacture Perforated Plate, Half Height, Wet Washing Test, Grain, Grid and Coffee Bean sieves. Contact Novasys for more details.
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