Toolbox Talk: A Lighting Safety Checklist for Site Supervisors

A short, practical checklist a site supervisor can run through before a night shift starts — not a substitute for a formal safety plan, but a fast way to catch the most common lighting gaps before work begins.

Before the Shift Starts

• Walk the site (or review the layout) and confirm every active work zone has coverage, not just the main work area
• Check access routes and walkways between zones aren't left in genuine darkness — see our night safety guide for why this matters beyond the task zone itself
• Confirm battery packs are charged and spares are available if the shift runs longer than a single charge cycle covers
• Check for obvious equipment damage — cracked lenses, damaged cables, anything affecting output or safety

During the Shift

• Reposition lighting as work areas shift, rather than leaving it fixed to where it was first set up
• Watch for developing shadow or glare problems as equipment or materials move into a lit area and change how light falls
• Confirm equipment operators can see surrounding personnel clearly, not just their immediate task point

Weather and Seasonal Checks

Add wind and rain-specific checks during monsoon or high-wind season — see our high-wind preparedness guide and monsoon maintenance checklist for what to add seasonally.

End of Shift

• Note any equipment needing service or showing early signs of a fault, rather than waiting for it to fail on the next shift — see our troubleshooting guide
• Secure or store equipment appropriately rather than leaving it in a compromised position overnight

This Is a Starting Point, Not a Complete Safety Plan

Site-specific hazards, applicable state BOCW Rules, and your own safety officer's requirements should always take priority over a general checklist like this one.