Warehouse lighting and work safety
The lighting system for warehouses and industrial spaces places high demands on designers and installers, in terms of both functionality and energy efficiency. Properly designed lighting has an impact on the safety of the people working in it. What steps should be taken to meet all the requirements?
Figures as a warning
According to the latest data published by the Central Statistical Office (GUS), 87,622 people were injured in accidents at work in 2015. Although this number decreased slightly (1.1%) compared to the previous year, the statistics still indicate transport and warehouse management as one of the three sectors, after manufacturing and construction, with the highest fatal-accident rate (more than 6 260 accidents, of which 49 were fatal). The cause of more than half of all last year's unfortunate events was the human factor, but improper preparation (including lighting) of the workplace caused nearly 4 650 accidents. These figures clearly show that the proper organisation of work places increases the comfort and safety of the tasks performed, which directly translates into fewer accidents, and, as a result, into more efficient and effective operation of the plant.
Good light for safety at work
There is no need to convince anyone that natural light is the healthiest for the human eye. It does not strain the eyesight, it stimulates activity, and it has a positive effect on concentration and well-being. However, it is not always possible to provide sufficient daylight for operation, due to the design and purpose of the buildings. For example, warehouses and industrial halls - in most cases without sunlight - must rely solely on artificial lighting, which often works continuously around the clock. It not only has to be durable, but also energy-efficient. Guidelines on the lighting of industrial premises are regulated by the Polish Standard introducing the European Standard PN-EN 12464-1:2004. According to the document, light streams of 100-150 lux are allowed in all traffic areas, and at the working level where people are present, a light intensity of not less than 200 lux is recommended. However, it is worth considering increasing it in the case of jobs which require exceptional precision or pose a particular threat to the health of the worker. “This undoubtedly includes all work at heights where shelf ladders or mobile platforms are used. Due to the risk of falling resulting from the loss of balance, or slipping, activities should be performed with special care and diligence” explains Marek Banach from KRAUSE, a company specialising in the production of ladders and platforms used in warehouses. “This can be helped by appropriately designed lighting which illuminates the work surface and increases the comfort and efficiency of the tasks performed above the ground”, adds the KRAUSE expert.
