Lighting experts BLT Direct are urging construction site managers to take a fresh look on their site lighting following the release of a worrying report from the HSE.
In the 2017 to 2018 period, 144 workers were killed at work, and over 550,000 workplace injuries occurred, according to the Labour Force Survey which takes into account all workplaces including construction sites.
Although the number of incidents recorded due to poor site lighting is unknown, the ability to see and avoid potential hazards is essential for helping workers stay safe on site and keep injury rates low.
The benefits of good lighting in the workplace and out on construction sites cannot be understated as it’s critical to help safeguard the health and wellbeing of employees. The quicker that workers can see and identify a hazard, the easier it is to avoid, so good lighting is essential to protect against workplace injuries.
In order to stay on the right side of the HSE and to keep workers safe, there is a set of minimum lighting requirements for any workplace. The apply to both indoor and outdoor work and cover illuminance on the task and illuminance ratios.
The illuminance needed on any particular area of a construction site is dependent upon how much detail needs to be seen when carrying out the task. It also depends on the age of the worker and the speed and accuracy by which the task needs to be performed.
Illuminance ratios are also a key consideration, as good lighting and one area and poor lighting in an adjacent area can lead to eye strain and discomfort, so it is essential that site lighting is even and offers good illumination in all work areas.
BLT Direct offers a wide range of 110-volt site lighting and equipment suitable for both general site illumination and close working. From sturdy floodlamps, tripods, lanterns, headlamps and festoon kits, BLT Direct can ensure that site lighting meets the requirements of the HSE and can help ensure the safety and wellbeing of workers.
