How Many Foot Candles Does a Warehouse Need?

When planning a warehouse LED retrofit, the first question contractors and facility managers ask is: how bright does it need to be?

The answer depends on the zone. All values below are maintained foot candles per ANSI/IES RP-7-21 — meaning levels must be met after applying the Light Loss Factor, not just on day one.

Recommended Maintained Foot Candle Levels by Zone

OSHA minimum for warehousing is 5 fc. For most projects, 30 fc average maintained is the standard default — covers forklift aisles, picking, and general storage, and stays within ASHRAE 90.1 LPD limits.

Rebate Eligibility

Many utility programs require minimum maintained illuminance levels for rebate qualification. Verify your layout meets IES RP-7-21 recommendations before submitting.

We provide IES files for all KF Series LED high bay products. Contact us at sales@kinyanform.com