By Doug Riseden, Technical Support Manager, Hymax USA

With short days and long nights in the winter, repairs at night are not uncommon and work areas need to be lit for the safety of workers and also motorists. In the interest of saving time during nighttime repairs, workers will sometimes use backhoe lights without auxiliary lighting and a generator. These lights will not supply enough illumination for the work site and compromise safety.

You should always use floodlights to illuminate any equipment crossings, and other areas where crew members will be working. Flaggers should be well lit to ensure their own safety, and the safety of the work zone. If drivers can’t see the flagger, their ability to slow down, divert or stop traffic is hindered.

Floodlights can also blind drivers entering a work zone. Once lights are set, a worker should drive through the area to observe the lights’ positioning and make adjustments as necessary. The use of self-righting work lights is a great way to provide light without causing it to shine in motorists’ eyes. Keep the work area also clear of obstacles, tools, and equipment.

The use of rotating or flashing amber lights on service vehicles is necessary and required by law in most states, however, these lights can be their own hazard. They can be very bright and blind drivers who are traveling the roadways and prevent safe driving. Wherever possible, direct these lights so drivers can see properly as they drive through and ensure worker safety.