| March 2010 |
Commercial Outdoor Lighting
Many companies are required to work outside at night, but dark conditions can often be too dangerous to work in, unless they can be lit adequately for the task in mind. Tasks such as construction, maintenance, and setting up outdoor events are very often conducted at night to avoid disruption for the public during the day. Dark conditions are prevalent during the winter months when outside work is necessary but there is little daylight, particularly during the early morning or late afternoon. In the event that night work must be carried out, many companies will invest in a light tower.
A light tower is a great way to provide even and reliable lighting for an outside working environment, and there are both static and portable models available to suit the different types of job application and business type. A static light tower may be preferred when the tower is required to be in-situ for a longer period of time, or when a number of stationary lighting points are required that will not need to be moved regularly. Static models will come with easy to position stabilising outriggers, which can then be quickly positioned to keep the light stable in its final location. Professional models often feature a fully automated mast which elevates a number of high quality powerful lights, typically four in number. Most will feature a hydraulic mast that can be erected quickly and easily at the push of a button, which is important for getting any site lit quickly and work started promptly.
For companies that need a more portable light tower, the answer is a mobile model featuring a road going trailer unit with tow bar that can be towed so that it can be easily made ready and moved to a different location. The trailer unit is fast to deploy and make secure once it is in place, with adjustable legs that are very similar to the static model. All light tower units should be relatively quick and easy to use, and the better ones will feature an option to tilt the lights whilst at the top of the mast. This will allow any site worker to direct their lighting exactly where it is needed, and it may also be useful for directing light away from residential areas and roads, where it may be considered a nuisance by some during the night.
Safety is always a prime concern on sites in any industry sector, and a good light tower as with any other equipment, should always comply with risk assessment procedures to ensure a safe site. All good models should be fitted with basic safety features such as reflectors to ensure that the trailer or base unit can easily be seen. However, some models will also feature safety devices to protect workers in case of high winds affecting the stability of the equipment, or any other accidental damage. Units may feature an alarm system that will automatically cause the lighting mast to descend if the alarm is triggered. This is an important safety feature to look out for when choosing equipment, as it will ensure that health and safety procedures can be met easily resulting in a safe and efficient site.
|