3 Common Lighting Mistakes That Can Lead to Injury

Before the light bulb was invented, working by the flicker of candlelight was common. Miners relied on candles or fire-lit headlamps until around 1915, when electric light headlamps were invented. Even then, it was years before electric headlamps were commonly used.

Today, we know that the human brain takes in 80% of its information from sight alone. Proper lighting significantly enhances employee safety by improving visibility, assisting workers in making more informed and safer decisions while completing tasks.

Consider the work environments your employees operate in. Are there any areas that are dimly lit or completely dark? These poorly lit spaces hinder employees from clearly seeing their work, potentially leading to accidents. Inadequate lighting can cause them to overlook crucial details, such as a sharp edge, an exposed wire or power cords, thereby increasing the risk of injuries.

Mistake #1: Poor indoor lighting

Effective lighting is essential for maintaining a safe indoor workplace. Poor lighting can lead to a range of issues, from eye strain and headaches to serious accidents caused by tripping or falling.

Consider this: enhancing visibility in indoor settings not only helps identify potential hazards but also has a direct impact on productivity. Poor lighting can slow employees down as they strain to see what they are doing, decreasing overall work efficiency.

By installing sufficient overhead lights, task lighting and emergency lighting, you ensure that all areas are well-lit and safe to navigate. Additionally, you could consider natural lighting options, such as skylights or windows, to reduce the need for artificial light during the day.

Mistake #2: Not considering changes in outdoor lighting

Adequate lighting becomes even more crucial in outdoor work environments. Conditions outside can vary greatly, and the lack of natural light during dawn, dusk and nighttime can significantly compromise safety. These situations are dangerous and can leave a company liable for any injuries sustained.

Proper outdoor lighting helps prevent accidents by clearly illuminating pathways, work zones and hazardous areas. Additionally, it aids in the operation of heavy machinery and vehicles by ensuring operators have a clear view of their surroundings, thereby reducing the risk of collisions and accidents.

It’s essential to regularly assess outdoor lighting needs as the seasons change and daylight hours fluctuate. Installing motion-activated lights or setting up timers can also help conserve energy while providing adequate lighting when needed. If your employees move from job site to job site, consider portable work lights, which can be battery-operated, rechargeable or corded.

Mistake #3: Ignoring the impact of light color temperature and distribution

You might not realize how much lighting can transform an environment. The right lighting can make all the difference for employees, especially when it comes to specific tasks and settings. When picking out light sources, consider these key factors:

• The color temperature, measured in Kelvins, determines the warmth or coolness of light. Extremes in the spectrum can skew color perception, causing colors like red and orange to appear more vibrant in warmer and muted in cooler light.
• Luminance measures the brightness of light and determines how much detail can be perceived. In work environments, it’s crucial to have sufficient luminance for employees to see and complete their tasks accurately.
• The throw of light refers to how far you are able to see the light. Typically, the more throw a light has, the more focused it becomes on an object. For example, spotlights create significant throw and can be seen from a distance.
• Spread refers to the width or angle of light emitted from a source, indicating how much area it covers. A wide spread, like that of parking lot lights, illuminates large spaces but lacks the intensity to strongly light a specific spot.

Investing in quality lighting is crucial for companies aiming to prevent injuries, protect employee well-being and reduce claims. Proper indoor and outdoor lighting ensures a safer, more productive environment by minimizing hazards and maximizing visibility. This commitment to excellent lighting highlights a company’s dedication to the health and safety of its workforce.