Winter lighting can bring with it some risks to the workplace or even enhance other workplace risks due to poor visibility.
Natural lighting is often dull and during winter, sunstrike at sunrise and sunset is more likely. If your company relies on natural lighting you may need to consider additional temporary lighting or other controls to improve conditions.
Benefits of Adequate Lighting
Having adequate lighting in a workplace can make a big difference.
It can help:
• Reduce Fatigue
• Reduce Eye Strain
• Reduce headaches
• Improve time it takes to focus on an object and identify the size of the
object (especially fast moving objects or small objects)
• Enhance the mood of workers
• Increase comfort
Improving Lighting
You can improve lighting by replacing bulbs to a higher wattage, or introduce additional
or temporary lighting to any areas that require it.
For example: if you are able to move the bench or the area that you are working around
to make the most of natural lighting it would be ideal, alternatively add temporary localized
(task) lighting.
If you do use temporary lighting ensure it is practical and is being used wisely and away from water or damp spots. Ensure no one will trip, spill liquids or cut any electrical cords from any
temporary lighting.
Outdoor Lighting
During Winter months sunstrike at sunrise and sunset can be a risk, especially when driving or working outdoors. Take some extra safety steps by:
Drivers:
• Vehicle windscreens are clean and have a pair of sunglasses available to wear if necessary.
• If you need to, pull over and wait for your eyes to adjust to the light.
• Drive with your lights on, so you are more visible to motorists and pedestrians.
• Take extra precautions while driving. Do not presume others have seen you.
Types of Artificial Lighting
There are 3 basic types of artificial lighting
General - Provides fairly uniformed lighting. example would be ceiling fixtures that
light up large areas.(eg. Warehouse, Office).
Localised / General Lighting -Uses overhead fixtures in addition to ceiling fixtures
to increase lighting levels for particular tasks. (eg. workshop, painting/ plastering).
Local (or task) lighting increases light levels over the work and immediate
surroundings. Local lighting often allows the user to adjust and control lighting
and provides flexibility for each user.
Workers
Ensure you are wearing hi-viz when working around moving vehicles.
Ensure the driver can see you.
Work with your back to the sun.
If unable to do this wear sunglasses if necessary
If you can move work to an area with better lighting, do so.
Set up temporary lighting if needed.
Lighting is a Hazard
Remember to add lighting hazards to your risk assessments and apply controls when required.
If you identify a potential hazard or have a near miss incident report it and take action!