Good (suitable and sufficient) lighting at work is an important contributory factor in maintaining the health and safety of everyone using that workplace. Obviously if hazards are easily and quickly seen then they more likely to be identified and avoided. The types of hazards present in a workplace will determine the lighting requirements to ensure the health and safety of the workforce.
Poor lighting can indirectly affect the health of workers in many ways. For example, symptoms such as eye strain, migraine and headaches can be experienced. In some instances worker feelings of lethargy, irritability and poor concentration can be linked to inappropriate lighting in the workplace.
In the UK, The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 requires employers to have arrangements to cover health and safety, this includes lighting which needs to be suitable and adequate to meet the requirements of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992.
Employers need to assess and manage the health and safety risks attributable to lighting levels within their workplaces.
We at Diamond can help by conducting workplace lighting surveys and where appropriate provide recommendations for both task and general lighting requirements to minimise the risks to workers from poor lighting.
It is important that lighting in the workplace:
- – allows people to notice hazards and assess risks;
- – provides sufficient light (illuminance on the task);
- – allows people to see properly and discriminate between colours, to promote safety;
- – does not cause glare, flicker or stroboscopic effects;
- – avoids the effects of veiling reflections;
- – is suitable to meet the special needs of individuals;
- – does not pose a health and safety risk itself;
- – does not result in excessive differences in illuminance within an area or between adjacent areas;
- – is suitable for the environment and the type of work (for example, it is not located against surfaces or materials that may be flammable);
- – is suitably positioned so that it may be properly maintained or replaced, and disposed of to ensure safety;
- – includes, when necessary, suitable and safe emergency lighting.
Diamond have experience of assisting clients with lighting surveys and providing appropriate recommendations to help them look after the health and safety of their employees.
For more information or to discuss an occupational lighting issue you can contact us (in strict confidence) by either telephone 01244 311440 or drop us a email chester@diamondenv.co.uk