In the commercial shipbuilding industry, injuries and fatalities happen more frequently than in other sectors of similar nature and with the same levels of risks involved. Most accidents happen as a result of inadequate lighting.
Slips, trips, and falls, coupled with the inability to exit the space affected by a mishap, are common hazards workers face in a shipyard. Poor levels of lighting also cause accidents on shipbuilding sites. Elevated lighting levels are necessary to work efficiently in the shipyard. It is also necessary for operating heavy equipment and reading and understanding signs, instructions, and warnings.
Why Shipyards Need Proper Illumination
Where shipyard workers are assigned tasks in a larger work area, the site must be illuminated well so that work is carried out smoothly and as per detailed instructions.
Maintenance staff must ensure that faulty lighting is promptly replaced or repaired before work is permitted in that area.
- Traffic may need to be diverted until lighting replacement/repairs are completed.
- Use temporary lighting arrangements where required. They can be used in combination with permanent lighting to achieve the required lighting levels.
- Temporary lighting must have the right electric cords with sufficient capacity to safely handle the electric load.
The lighting arrangements must have proper insulation, and the connections must be maintained safely. They must not be broken, cracked, or damaged.
Handle Stringers With Care
It is important to note that lights or stringers must never be suspended only by their electric cords unless designed that way. Inappropriate suspension can put stress on the cords, cause them to break or become damaged, and put the workers on the site at risk of getting an electrical shock.
All branch circuits in the shipbuilding site must have protection from any surge in current. They must not be allowed to exceed the current-carrying capacity of the cord used, which can result in a short circuit or fire.
Application Of Portable Lights In Shipyards
Portable emergency lights or portable lights do not come in the temporary lighting category. They are designed for short-term use and can be used while evacuating a part of the shipyard site or for localized lighting. They are not recommended to perform work tasks unless used in conjunction with already existing lighting.
Portable or emergency lights are generally used in the shipbuilding industry in any dark area devoid of permanent or temporary lights.
They can be used in spaces where
- Lights have suddenly stopped working, plunging the area into darkness.
- There is no access to a power source.
- Heavy-duty work involving shipping vessels is going on
- There are no illumination sources, and natural sunlight is not sufficient for workers to perform their tasks efficiently.
Portable illumination is recommended for use in any area in the shipbuilding yard or site with a fire risk. Shipbuilding areas may sometimes have a concentration of flammable vapors at or above the recommended limit. You must use explosion-proof portable lights approved by a recognized testing laboratory in such places. Streamer lights can also be considered for shipyard illumination.
Using Temporary Lighting In A Shipping Yard
Temporary lighting systems are used in a shipping yard for various reasons, such as improving visibility, enhancing safety, and increasing productivity. Some common situations where temporary lighting may be required include:
Carrying Out Urgent Maintenance And Repairs
When workers urgently need to perform maintenance or repairs on equipment or structures in the yard at night, they might not get the necessary illumination to complete the work smoothly. Temporary lighting can help them see what they are doing more clearly.
During Loading And Unloading Of Materials:
Shipping yards generally operate around the clock and do all types of work, including loading and unloading tools and equipment. Workers need adequate lighting focused on the work area and its surroundings from where they have to pick up stuff or stack up deliveries. Temporary lighting can help workers load and unload containers and other cargo safely, even during nighttime hours.
Provides Security In High-Risk Areas
Adequate lighting is essential in those areas of the shipping yard which are vulnerable and can attract antisocial elements. Good lighting can discourage criminal activity and help security personnel detect suspicious behavior quickly and respond to it appropriately.
When choosing temporary lighting for a shipping yard, it is essential to consider factors such as the size and layout of the area to be illuminated, the type of work being performed, and the availability of power sources.
Several types of temporary lights can be used for commercial purposes outdoors, especially in the shipyard industry. Some of the most common types are:
String lights:
These are a popular choice for outdoor events and can be strung across any structure, including poles, existing light arrangements, and other systems. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors.
Floodlights:
Flood lights are powerful lights used to illuminate a large area. They are often used for construction sites or outdoor events where work cannot be done efficiently without proper lighting.
Spotlights:
They are similar to flood lights but provide more focused lighting and can be used to highlight specific objects such as machinery or a welding area, etc.
LED Lights:
LED is the right choice if you are looking for energy-efficient and long-lasting lights. They come in various colors and can be used as functional or decorative lighting.
When choosing temporary lights for commercial use outdoors, it is essential to consider factors such as the event’s location, purpose, and duration. Also, ensure there are no regulations or restrictions on using specific types of lighting in the area.
Some popular options for temporary lighting in shipping yards include portable LED floodlights, tower lights, and string lights. It may also be a good idea to consult with a professional lighting company to ensure the lighting is installed safely and meets relevant regulations or standards.
Duraline is a leading supplier of safety-engineered electrical distribution and temporary lighting systems. All the products are made in the USA and meet the quality control and audit requirements.
