More than comfort, having a well-lit workspace is a matter of safety. Insufficient or poor lighting can increase the risk of accidents, injuries and even death.
Employers are duty-bound to provide a safe workspace. Poor lighting can be a significant liability.
Risks of poor lighting in the workplace
Poor lighting can create hazards in the workplace, including:
- Increased risk of trips and falls
- Eyestrain and headaches, leading to reduced concentration
- Difficulty reading important safety instructions or warnings
- Impaired ability to identify hazards or obstacles
- Reduced visibility of moving machinery or equipment
- Shadows that obscure potential dangers
In Alaska, the state’s Occupational Safety and Health Standards require employers to provide adequate lighting for all work areas.
The particular requirements differ based on the nature of the work. For example, construction sites must have at least 5 foot-candles of illumination for general areas, while office spaces require a minimum of 30 foot-candles.
Failing to meet these standards can mean liability for injuries resulting from poor lighting conditions. This can lead to workers’ compensation claims, personal injury lawsuits and potential fines from regulatory agencies.
Do not wait until it is too late
To minimize the risk of lighting-related injuries, businesses may try to conduct regular lighting audits to identify areas with inadequate lighting. It is also best to install appropriate lighting fixtures for each work area and maintain and replace light bulbs as needed and as soon as possible.
Despite these precautions, accidents can still occur. When they do, determining liability can be complex. Factors such as the employer’s knowledge of the lighting issue, attempts to address the problem and the employee’s actions all play a role in assessing responsibility.
Businesses may attempt to address these issues themselves. Still, there are legal matters that may be beyond their in-house team’s ability to resolve. In such cases, it can be advantageous to enlist the help of an experienced attorney in Alaska.