Lighting the Way: Keeping your workplace safe with proper lighting
Workplace lighting serves a range of purposes that make work easier, safer and more enjoyable. The right lighting makes it easier to be more productive at work.
The right lighting is an important component of workplace safety that can be easily overlooked. OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, oversees workplace safety as it pertains to lighting. Stay on the right side of OSHA regulations (and give your employees their best chances to be great) by following these rules.
Types of Lighting
- General Lighting: The shape, space and natural lighting of the workplace dictates what type of general lighting you must provide. Workplaces without natural light, for example, need more lighting products than workplaces that have large windows with ample natural light. Expect to provide enough general lighting to illuminate all areas of the workplace.
Emergency Lighting: Emergency lighting, including exit signs, is mandatory per OSHA regulations and regularly inspected by the fire marshal. Work areas, stairwells and hallways need emergency lighting that goes on when the regular lights fail or the fire alarm is activated.
- Exterior Lighting: It is your responsibility to ensure that the exterior of the workplace is lit adequately so that employees can safely find their way to their cars. For outdoor sites, such as construction areas, you’ll need to provide adequate general lighting so employees can do their jobs. This may mean using portable lights, stack lights or tower lights.
Toolbox talk based on NMGC submitted by Dean Dittman – P66 Bayway