Page 13 - OHS, September 2024

Appropriate lighting in the workplace reduces eye tension, improves productivity, and eliminates the numbers of accidents and falls.
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A new category of hands-free work lights that clamp virtually any- where, stand on their own and easily pivot is also allowing workers to illuminate hard-to-reach spaces for the task at hand. Using lights that can be clamped to many surfaces, hung from a hook, or po- sitioned in small spaces with magnets enables workers to concen- trate less on the light and focus more on the job and any hazards that could threaten their personal safety. New portable work lights today can be positioned for overhead flood lighting or for direct spot lighting in tight spaces. Moreover, the lights can be easily ad- justed by rotating in both a vertical or horizontal direction allow- ing technicians to more easily troubleshoot a problem and protect them from potential bodily harm.
These lights typically allow users to see the color spectrum as they would in natural light. The light provides a softer, warmer beam to assist with identifying subtle details and colors in various work applications, which prevents glare and eye fatigue. Glare re- duction and the ability to more accurately identify colors also pre- vent mistakes or accidents in low light environments when work- ing with colored electrical wires, replacing parts in an emergency, or even identifying warning signage within a facility.
Dependable Lighting Provides Peace of Mind
Perhaps the biggest trend in flashlight technology is lights that use rechargeable battery technology to ensure that light is always avail- able when needed, offering dependable, always-on illumination that leads to less worker downtime and a safer working environ- ment. Additionally, rechargeable batteries promote environmental sustainability by eliminating downstream waste due to the reduc- tion of disposable batteries, leading to a cleaner working environ- ment by reducing the number of spent batteries in landfills.
Regardless of the type of light used, when it comes to the safety of all within a work location, managers and employees should review how new lights operate to better understand any new features and safety enhancements. Every new feature in today’s lights has been carefully designed and engineered to safely support workers and their specific profession. Managers should pay close attention to the rapidly changing technology and enhancements to prevent accidents and to ensure a safe, healthy, productive work environment.
Aaron Freund is the Director of Sales for the Industrial and Fire Divisions at Streamlight, Inc.
REFERENCE
1. tinyurl.com/28d6efcr
www.ohsonline.com
SEPTEMBER 2024 | Occupational Health & Safety 11
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