The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets strict standards for myriad working and infrastructural conditions across the United States. One of their areas of regulation is lighting, and the administration sets strict standards for minimum lighting requirements in warehouses. Their regulatory standard 1926.56 establishes the strength of lighting in general construction areas, and it is an important consideration for construction contractors, commercial real estate owners, and warehouse managers, especially as lighting fixtures get refitted with more modern lighting alternatives.

What are the lighting requirements for warehouses and other general construction areas?

OSHA measures lighting in terms of foot-candles, that is, the lighting provided by one candle at a distance of one foot. The administration sets the minimum lighting standard in general areas at five foot-candles, or five ftc, while loading platforms and certain maintenance areas are only required to have lighting at three ftc.

These worksite minimums are mandated minimums only, and many unions such as Teamsters or even state and county regulators can place higher standards on warehouses within their jurisdictions. OSHA also has regulations regarding the outlet and switch placements, as well as conditions for the ease and safety of light bulb replacement.

Adhering to these standards is critical for any business, and Relumination focuses on the safety and illumination standards of each of our lighting systems.