Generic Risk Assessment + Method Statement For Supply, Delivery And Installation of Office Lighting

Scope of Document

This generic assessment highlights common risks and potential mitigations associated with the supply, delivery and installation of office lighting in office interiors. This includes ceiling fixtures, recessed lighting, track lighting and other lighting systems.

Risk assessment and method statement documents must always be tailored to site and scope specific conditions and, therefore, this document must be developed in order to be suitable for use on a project.

Potential Risks and Hazards

  1. Manual Handling

    • Risk: Lifting and installing heavy lighting fixtures can cause musculoskeletal injuries.

    • Mitigation: Use proper lifting techniques, team lifting and mechanical aids where necessary. Provide manual handling training for workers.

  2. Working at Height

    • Risk: Falls from ladders or scaffolding during lighting installation.

    • Mitigation: Use appropriate fall protection equipment (harnesses, guardrails), ensure ladders and scaffolding are stable and follow safe working-at-height procedures.

  3. Electrical Hazards

    • Risk: Contact with live wires during lighting installation can cause shocks or burns.

    • Mitigation: Ensure power is turned off, use lockout/tagout procedures and test for live circuits before starting work. Only qualified electricians should handle electrical connections.

  4. Falling Objects

    • Risk: Tools, lighting fixtures, or components falling from height can cause injury or damage.

    • Mitigation: Secure tools and materials at height, use tool lanyards and enforce safety zones below work areas.

  5. Trips and Falls

    • Risk: Cables, tools, or other materials on the floor can create trip hazards.

    • Mitigation: Keep work areas clean and organized, use cable management systems and clearly mark hazardous areas.

  6. Exposure to Hazardous Materials

    • Risk: Encountering asbestos, lead-based paint, or other hazardous materials during installation.

    • Mitigation: Conduct a site survey for hazardous materials before work begins and follow appropriate procedures for handling and disposing of hazardous materials. Use suitable personal protective equipment (PPE).

  7. Noise Exposure

    • Risk: Noise from drills, saws, or other equipment can cause hearing damage.

    • Mitigation: Provide hearing protection, limit exposure to loud noise and use quieter equipment where possible.

Method Statement

  1. Preparation

    • Review project plans and scope of work, ensuring compliance with electrical codes and regulations.

    • Obtain all necessary permits and approvals before beginning work.

    • Conduct a pre-work safety meeting to discuss hazards and safety protocols. Review emergency procedures and evacuation plans.

  2. Site Setup

    • Establish designated areas for staging materials and equipment.

    • Install safety barriers and signage to control access to work areas.

    • Inspect the site to identify and address any pre-existing hazards.

  3. Delivery of Materials

    • Coordinate with suppliers for the safe and timely delivery of lighting fixtures and components.

    • Ensure unloading is done in a controlled manner, using mechanical aids where needed.

    • Store lighting components securely to prevent damage or unauthorized access.

  4. Lighting Installation

    • Ensure power is turned off and lockout/tagout procedures are in place before starting work.

    • Follow installation plans and ensure proper routing of wiring. Use cable management systems to minimize trip hazards.

    • Install lighting fixtures and systems according to code and manufacturer guidelines. Use appropriate tools and safety equipment.

    • Test circuits and connections to ensure safety and functionality before re-energizing.

  5. Inspection and Cleanup

    • Inspect the installed lighting to ensure compliance with safety and electrical codes.

    • Clean up the work area, ensuring all waste and debris are properly disposed of.

    • Conduct a post-work safety meeting to discuss any issues or lessons learned.

Emergency Procedures

  1. Emergency Contacts

    • Maintain a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, medical facilities and the project's safety officer.

  2. Emergency Response

    • In case of an emergency, follow the designated evacuation plan. Ensure emergency exits are clear and accessible.

    • Provide first aid to injured workers and contact emergency services if necessary.

    • Conduct a post-emergency review to understand the causes and implement corrective actions.

This generic document contains common risks and potential mitigations for the type of work detailed.

Risk assessment and method statement documents must always be tailored to site and scope specific conditions and, therefore, this document must be developed in order to be suitable for use on a project.

This document was last reviewed 1st May 2024.