Exterior LightingExterior LightingPreventing Injuries and Increasing Security By Maintaining Effective

Lighting

Poor lighting is a contributing factor to a number of accidents and injuries at many types of properties.

Inadequate exterior lighting can lead to:

Slips, Trips and FallsStruck By/AgainstMotor Vehicle AccidentsAssaults

Areas with low (or no) lighting can Areas with low (or no) lighting can also provide a safe haven for would-be also provide a safe haven for would-be

assailantsassailants

Poor Lighting and InjuriesPoor Lighting and Injuries

Possible injuries:Sprains, strains

Bruises, contusions

Fractures

Abrasions, lacerations

Affected body parts:

Knee, Ankle, Foot

Wrist, Elbow

Back

Shoulder

Hip

Head

Result of Poor LightingResult of Poor Lighting

Importance of Exterior LightingImportance of Exterior Lighting

The purpose of exterior lighting is to allow you to detect a hazard in plenty of time to take corrective action:

Uneven sidewalk Object in the path Threatening animal Suspicious person Etc

If you can see a potential threat in advance then you at least have a chance to avoid it!

Lighting levels should allow pedestrians to clearly distinguish the edges of the walkway, changes in direction, intersecting walkways, and any potential obstacles or hazards

Street crossings, changes in grade, and other potentially hazardous locations should be illuminated at a higher level than other sections of the walkway

Light fixtures should be located so that they do not impede pedestrian traffic

To provide a sense of security, light fixtures should be located to minimize shadows and illuminate areas adjacent to the walkway

Pedestrian LightingPedestrian Lighting

Swimming Pool LightingSwimming Pool Lighting Adequate pool lighting is essential if the pool

is to be open after dark

Lights should be turned on at dusk, approximately 30 minutes prior to sunset

Lights should come on automatically (timer) if at all possible to avoid any oversight

Lighted areas should include pool entrance/exit as well as all deck surfaces and restroom facilities

In pool lights are also necessary; certain elements may be required by local code (check with your building inspector)

Other Areas Requiring Other Areas Requiring IlluminationIllumination

Driveways, parking lots and walkways should be effectively lit with outdoor-rated lighting fixtures

Stairways should be well lit with wall mounted lights or ceiling mounted outdoor-rated pendants

Lighting should extend to or encompass the area immediately in front of each unit’s front door

Floodlights and spotlights can add extra light around gates and garages for additional security

In some locations, it may also be necessary to provide for adequate lighting during the day.

Daytime LightingDaytime Lighting

Managers should establish procedures for the inspection of all exterior lighting to insure: All lights are working properly Absence of vandalism or breakage Tree limbs and shrubs have not grown to a point that blocks designed lighting

Procedures should specify: Who is required to inspect lights When it is to be done How it is to be documented

Exterior Lighting InspectionsExterior Lighting Inspections

Procedures

The Manager at EACH location is required to make sure these procedures are followed:1) Assign the task of checking lights to one or more

responsible persons (security, maintenance, etc.)2) Establish controls to make sure that the required checks

are, in fact, being completed (light check logs, reports, etc.)3) Management/Supervisor should review reports timely4) The repairing of missing/broken lighting is a priority! It

should be attended to immediately5) Maintain the light check logs and documentation that

broken lights were fixed for up to two years

Thank you for taking the time to Thank you for taking the time to learn about safety, health and how learn about safety, health and how

to prevent future injuries and to prevent future injuries and illnesses.illnesses.