The use of a hand-held device for the calculation of approximate LRV values may be useful for onsite measurements. Where this is done, the lighting in place at the time measurements are taken may affect the result obtained. As such, details of the lighting should be recorded along with any results for LRV. Colorimeters may also not be suitable for metallic or glossy surfaces, or where the surfaces are curved.

'Design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people – Code of practice' provides information on what may be considered as acceptable levels of contrast in light reflectance values.

'Light reflectance value (LRV) of a surface – Method of test', uses the CIE Y, x, y values measured under standard conditions, with a sphere-type spectrophotometer.