Working in the Dark
- Anna Hayford
- Jan 1
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 25
Ah, winter - the time when normal working hours & commutes include dark at both ends. Today’s blast includes some tips for those dark times.
Personal safety
Awareness of Surroundings: Stay alert and aware of potential hazards, like uneven terrain or unexpected obstacles.
Emergency Contacts: Have quick access to emergency contacts and ensure that they know you may contact them.
Buddy System: We promote working in pairs or groups when possible to enhance safety and provide immediate assistance if needed.
Mobile Phones: We suggest carrying a fully charged mobile phones for communication and navigation.
Fatigue Management: Fatigue can increase the risk of accidents. Take regular breaks, stay hydrated, and ensure you get enough rest before your shift.
Site Safety Reminders
Light the way:
Use adequate lighting in all work areas. Portable lights, headlamps, or fixed lighting can help reduce the risk of accidents.
Regularly check and maintain all lighting equipment to ensure it’s in working order.
Be seen:
Wear high-visibility or reflective clothing to make sure you’re easily seen by others, especially around vehicles or machinery.
Proper footwear is essential! Choose sturdy, slip-resistant shoes to navigate dark or uneven surfaces safely.
Clear pathways:
Keep pathways clear of debris and obstacles. A clean path is a safe path.
If you’re operating or working near vehicles, ensure lights are functional, and follow safety procedures like using spotters.
Prioritize Security
Ensure entrances and exits are secure to prevent unauthorized access.
If you see something unusual or suspicious, report it immediately to security or your supervisor.
Working near the Road
Always face oncoming traffic when working near roads to stay aware of approaching vehicles.
Use cones, signs, or barriers to create a safe work zone.
Wear reflective gear and ensure your work area is well-lit.
If working from a vehicle, keep hazard lights on, and ensure the vehicle is parked safely off the road.
Keep headlights or interior lights on if visibility is low, but avoid shining lights directly into oncoming traffic.
Sunrise, Sunset
Whether you want to be on the lookout for those brighter days ahead or just keep track of when you’ll be working in the dark, head to:
Just plug in your location and this website tells you the technical time for sunrises and sunsets, as well as the time of “first light” and “last light.”
Want to feel better about our darkness levels? Plug in Point Barrow, Alaska!
