Electrical Safety in Industrial Lighting Systems

Electrical safety in industrial lighting systems is a critical concern for manufacturing, pharmaceutical, chemical, and other industrial businesses aiming to protect their employees, equipment, and operations from electrical hazards. The complexity and scale of lighting in industrial settings mean that ensuring safety requires a comprehensive understanding of the types of lighting and the industrial environments in which they’re present.

Types of Industrial Lighting

Industrial settings employ a variety of lighting types to meet different needs. Brightness, color temperature, color rendering index, and energy efficiency are factors to compare in various types of industrial lighting.

• High-pressure Sodium and mercury vapor lights: These lights are durable and efficient and emit a warm, amber light. However, they contain hazardous mercury, take a long time to come on or reactivate after a power outage, and have a poor color rendering index. They may also flicker and buzz.
• Fluorescent lights: These are bright and come on immediately. However, they still contain hazardous materials, such as mercury. and can flicker. Plus, the quality of light they produce can deteriorate over time.
• LED panel: LED panels are increasingly popular for their energy efficiency, durability, clarity, and brightness. They’re available in types that are dimmable or have adjustable color temperatures. Furthermore, they have built-in heat dissipation for fire safety. They’re less susceptible to damage from power surges.

Environments That Can Create Electrical Hazards in Industrial Lighting

As with any electrical component attached to a power supply, industrial lighting can create electrical hazards, such as shocks and electrical fires. Several environmental factors can increase the risk of electrical hazards in industrial lighting systems:

• Humidity and temperature extremes: They can damage fixtures and wiring.
• Vibration: It may loosen electrical connections.
• Dust, dirt, and salt: They can corrode fixtures and interfere with proper functioning.
• Power surges: They pose a risk to lighting systems not designed to handle them.
• Combustible or explosive materials: They require special lighting solutions to prevent ignition.
• Improper installation: It increases the chance of electrical fires.
• Poor training and signage: They increase the risk of accidents.
• Outdated fixtures, wear, and corrosion: Older systems may not meet current safety standards, making retrofitting the industrial light system necessary to improve safety and efficiency.

Minimizing Electrical Lighting Risks in Industrial Environments

Employees, equipment, and entire facilities are at risk when industrial lighting doesn’t undergo proper installation and receive proper maintenance. It can also create hazards when it becomes worn out. To minimize the risk of electric shock and other electrical hazards related to industrial lighting, you must:

• Conduct regular inspections and maintenance: Ensure that all lighting systems are in good working order and meet current safety standards.
• Use proper fixtures for hazardous locations: Employ lighting solutions for use in environments with combustible materials or extreme conditions.
• Implement safe work practices: Train employees on the safe handling of electrical equipment, and establish clear procedures for dealing with electrical incidents.
• Keep up with technological advances: Consider upgrading to more modern, safer lighting technologies like LED, which offer improved efficiency and lower heat output.
• Ensure proper installation: Work with qualified electricians who understand the unique requirements of industrial lighting installations.
• Appropriate positioning: Locate lighting fixtures to provide adequate lighting to all areas and facilitate easy maintenance and replacement. Ensure fixtures don’t interfere with fire protection systems.

Maintaining electrical safety for industrial lighting systems requires regular maintenance, employee training, appropriate lighting technologies, and proper installation. When combined, these factors can create comprehensive electrical safety in industrial settings.

About Dan Coconate

Dan Coconate is a local Chicagoland freelance writer who has been in the industry since graduating from college in 2019. He currently lives in the Chicagoland area where he is pursuing his multiple interests in journalism.