Lighten Up for Efficiency

WHAT’S AT STAKE?

Reduction of injuries, security increase and production boots are factors in play when good workplace practices and policies are implemented.

WHAT’S THE DANGER?

It is important to examine how the three factors set out in the previous segment are manifested in real time.

Reduction of injuries

When lighting is inadequate, your chances of tripping and falling are increased. Your chances of injuring yourself with tools, materials and equipment is heightened.

Security increase

Poor lighting is an invitation to criminals who see it as an opportunity for undetected theft and violence.

Productivity

By reducing injuries and with an increase in security with good workplace lighting policies and practices, there will be a boost in production and overall comfort for workers.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

It is correct to say that the average line worker has no responsibility to maintain good lighting in the workplaces.

Engineers normally design lighting placement and intensity. Maintenance workers look after replacing burned out light bulbs!!!

But there are 2 roles a worker has in a good workplace lighting policy.

First, you should make suggestions for improving the light in your work area. You might
be the only person who has noticed the distracting glare from the unshaded light above
the polished work counter.

Second, you should report any damage or defects in your workplace lighting so these situations can be corrected. You might see fluorescent tubes in need of replacement, outdoor lighting damaged by vandals or defects that could cause fire or shock.

• The brightest light is not necessarily the best light. To see your work well, you may need some contrast between light and dark. Many jobs call for overall room lighting with additional task lighting in the form of a lamp or light table. The color and sheen of the work surface also makes a difference. When things are all the same color, it can be hard to see detail.
• Make sure permanent wiring is installed for any new light. Don’t rely on extension cords, a common cause of fire, shock and fall injuries.
• Lighting around computer workstations can be tricky. The glare from a light or window can make it difficult to see the screen. Rearranging the work station or installing an anti-glare filter are two ways to fix this problem.
• Many injuries from falls happen in poorly lit halls, stairwells and storage rooms. Good lighting and clean, light-colored walls are two solutions.
• Don’t forget temporary wiring and lighting, such as that used on construction sites, must comply with codes. Defective or undersized wiring can cause fires and electric shocks. Inspect temporary lighting systems frequently. Replace burned out bulbs and make sure bulb guards stay in place.
• Emergency lighting can save lives by helping people escape in case of fire or
  another crisis. Make sure emergency lights stay in good condition. Adverse conditions in a plant, such as high or low temperatures. Fumes, dust and grease can prevent emergency lights from working. Make sure these lights are maintained regularly, and report any problems you find.

Good lightning can also improve personal security when you travel in and out of your working place and through remote areas of the plant or grounds. Lights around doorways and in the parking, lots are important in preventing assaults and other injury incidents such as falls.