Are you always working in the dark? The impact of limited daylight exposure on radiologists’ health

Radiologists spend most of their day in dimly lit reading rooms, for controlled lighting is essential for accurate image interpretation. However, prolonged exposure to such environments poses health risks, including burnout, depression, and circadian disruption. These risks not only affect individual well-being, but also contribute to workforce shortages; radiology's association with dark and isolating workplaces hampers recruiting young talent in radiology at a time when there is a shortage of skilled workers. Natural light, crucial for vitamin D synthesis, serotonin regulation, and sleep-wake cycles, is often missing in radiology departments. European workplace regulations emphasize daylight access, but exemptions for radiology highlight a gap between occupational health needs and imaging requirements. This article explores the health implications of limited daylight exposure, focusing on radiologists, and compares legal frameworks in Germany, Switzerland, and the European Union. CRITICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: Working in dark environments not only threatens radiologists' health, but also negatively impacts performance and professional image and is often overlooked in architectural planning and daylight regulations. This article highlights these issues through an analysis of current studies and legal frameworks. KEY POINTS: Poor lighting environments contribute to burnout and diagnostic fatigue in radiologists. Radiology reading rooms often remain exceptions to workplace lighting regulations. Integrating daylight and ergonomic lighting enhances radiologists' health.