Simple Overview of Osha Lighting Requirements for the Workplace

Lighting at the workplace is an important factor that contributes to organizational productivity and efficiency. Researchers have demonstrated that satisfaction with lighting contributes to greater environmental satisfaction, which in turn enhances greater job satisfaction that ultimately increases organizational commitment.

The federal government’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), responsible for ensuring workplace safety has established guidelines in lighting, specifically for the minimum amount of lighting required for working areas.

The wiring standards, the safety of lighting outlets and controls, the minimum clearance from light fixtures, artificial light safety and emergency lighting are all listed in its guidelines. OSHA standard 1926.56 established minimum lighting requirements in foot-candles ((ftc.) which is the amount of illumination produced by a candle from 1 foot distance) for a variety of work environments which include offices, hallways and exit ways.

OSHA requires that a workspace environment be specifically organized to reduce glare and excessive lighting, which can result in eye strain and headaches.

Office Task Lighting

The purpose of task lighting is to focus light and aim it at specific areas to help accomplish a specific task. For instance in a production warehouse, task lighting will be provided by spotlight or desk light. This will help the worker clearly view small objects in the production or dismantling of merchandise.

Emergency Office Lighting

Emergency lighting is light that is connected to a reserve power source in case of a power failure, they are supposed to be installed near signs that are posted at every exit-way to ensure safe evacuation of workers during an emergency. Exit-ways and corridors are required to maintain a minimum of 5ftc.