Which type of lighting is commonly used in nuclear restricted areas?

Very near infrared (VNIR) lighting is commonly used in nuclear restricted areas primarily because it is less detectable to the human eye while still providing necessary illumination. This characteristic is crucial in high-security environments where maintaining a low visibility profile can enhance security measures and protect sensitive operations. VNIR illuminators allow for surveillance and observation without alerting individuals to their presence, making them ideal for managing access control and monitoring restricted zones.

In addition to visibility concerns, the use of VNIR is aligned with specific operational requirements where traditional lighting sources may either draw attention or fail to meet the necessary operational profile for security forces. Conventional types of lighting, such as low-pressure sodium and high-intensity discharge options, are either too conspicuous or do not provide the specific wavelength advantages that low visibility operations necessitate. In contrast, laser lighting, while effective for precise applications, does not serve the broader illumination needs of a restricted area as efficiently as VNIR.