Safe Work in Unlit Areas

Key Hazards

• Trips and falls from unseen obstacles or surface changes
• Workers not visible to drivers, equipment operators, or coworkers
• Poor identification of electrical, mechanical, or chemical hazards
• Shadows, glare, or uneven lighting hiding hazards
• Unsafe use of temporary lighting or extension cords
• Security or public interaction concerns in dark areas

2–3 Minute Talk Script

Unlit and poorly lit areas increase the risk of slips, trips, struck-by incidents, and mistakes because workers cannot clearly see the hazards around them.

Before starting work, the crew should determine whether lighting is adequate for the task. If the work cannot be seen clearly, temporary lighting or a different work plan may be needed.

Walking surfaces are harder to judge in poor lighting. Holes, curbs, steps, tools, cords, wet areas, debris, and uneven ground can be missed until a worker is already falling.

Visibility to others is also important. Workers in dark areas may not be seen by drivers, equipment operators, forklift operators, or coworkers unless high-visibility clothing or lighting is used.

Temporary lights should be placed carefully. Poorly positioned lights can create glare, harsh shadows, trip hazards from cords, or electrical hazards in wet areas.

Workers should avoid performing detailed or high-risk tasks in poor lighting when the hazard cannot be controlled. Electrical work, cutting, lifting, traffic work, and equipment operation need clear visibility.

Communication matters when crews are spread out in dark areas. Workers should know where others are located and how to call for help if conditions change.

Safe work in unlit areas depends on recognizing when darkness has become a hazard. Add lighting, improve visibility, slow down, and stop work if the task cannot be done safely.

Safety Reminders

• Check lighting before starting the task.
• Use temporary lighting when needed.
• Watch for unseen holes, steps, cords, tools, and debris.
• Wear high-visibility clothing when exposed to vehicles or equipment.
• Place lights to reduce glare and shadows.
• Route lighting cords to prevent trips and electrical hazards.
• Stop work if hazards cannot be seen clearly.

Ask the Crew

• Is lighting adequate for the task?
• What hazards could be hidden by darkness or shadows?
• Can workers be seen by vehicles, equipment, and coworkers?
• Are temporary lights and cords set up safely?
• Should the work pause until better lighting is available?