When you think of workplace safety, lightbulbs are probably not at the top of your list, but they’re more important than you might think!
Studies show that lighting in the workplace affects more than what we see. It also affects non-visual factors like employee alertness, sleep patterns, behavior, and performance. Better lighting creates a safer, more productive workplace.
How do LEDs make a difference in workplace safety?
All wholesale lighting is not created equal. Studies have shown LEDs to be one of the safest choices in workplace lighting.
Here are six ways LEDs can increase workplace safety:
1. Increased employee alertness
LED lamps have been shown to cause less mental fatigue than other lamps, thanks to cooler color temperatures. Employees that are more alert are less prone to accidents. LEDs are available in more color temperatures than other lighting options. For mental alertness, choose cooler colors.
2. Increased visibility
LED lighting decreases the chances of accidents caused by dim or flickering lighting. LEDs offer higher lumen output than standard bulbs, creating a brighter workspace with fewer shadows. That’s important because poor lighting can make it challenging to use tools and judge distances accurately. Poor lighting contributes to workplace injuries like cuts or falls. LEDs eliminate this problem.
3. Improved employee well-being
Lighting affects your employees’ physical and emotional health. Poor lighting contributes to eyestrain, headaches, and neck, back, and shoulder strain. It has also been shown to contribute to depression, similar to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression more common in the darker seasons. Brighter, more consistent lighting makes healthier employees.
4. Fewer maintenance issues
Lower maintenance LED lamps mean fewer trips up a ladder and fewer opportunities for injuries due to falls or electric shocks. Although many factors influence an LED lamp’s lifespan, they generally last many years longer than traditional bulbs.
5. Cooler, safer lamps
Because LEDs are so efficient at converting energy into illumination, they have very little heat loss. Unlike a traditional bulb, the coolness of LEDs prevents accidental burns from contact. LED lamps are also less likely to shatter because they are cooler. For an added layer of safety, consider purchasing shatterproof LEDs.
6. No mercury exposure
Unlike CFLs, LEDs are mercury-free. That means no accidental exposure. While the amount of mercury in one bulb is not likely to cause health problems, it’s always wise to avoid any contact with mercury. Any mercury spill requires special cleanup and care to avoid exposure to its liquid or vapor form.
Overall, not only is LED lighting an energy and money saver, but it’s also a safer bet than standard lighting options. Cooler, cleaner, brighter LED lighting is a clear choice for a brighter, safer workplace.
RP Lighting + Fans is your source for wholesale LED lighting. Our experts can help you find the perfect lighting solution. Contact us today to find out more!
In an effort to promote energy efficiency and recognizing the importance of energy conservation, RP Lighting has developed multiple products in each of our lighting and ceiling fan categories that are Energy Star qualified. 
