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#1 Posted : 14 December 2000 14:55:00(UTC)
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Posted By Richard
Our fluorescent light fittings are fairly old, and the diffusers have darkened with age and are noticably reducing light output. The diffusers are no longer made, so we can't replace them.

Is there any statutory reason why we can't just remove the diffusers, and operate without them? We are talking classroom/ laboratory environment, though we do have one room which is a training kitchen.

Grateful for any help

Richard
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#2 Posted : 14 December 2000 21:11:00(UTC)
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Posted By Ken Taylor
The two main problems could be glare and vulnerability of the exposed tubes to physical impact with serious consequences for those in the vicinity. If these are applicable, I would say replace the units with modern ones from a well-known manufacturer from whom spares should be available for some time. We have had to do this in our schools in several areas and the improvement in lighting standard has been appreciated.
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#3 Posted : 18 December 2000 12:47:00(UTC)
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Posted By Lance Morgan
Agreed, it would be folly to try and make do with the diffusers removed. They should be replaced and wiring etc checked.
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#4 Posted : 19 December 2000 12:20:00(UTC)
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Posted By Richard
Appreciate your help, unfortunately I do need to back up my opinions with statute! I'm sure we all appreciate why!!

Richard
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#5 Posted : 19 December 2000 13:20:00(UTC)
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Posted By Ken Taylor
Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 - Regulation 8 (duty to provide suitable and sufficient lighting).

Display Screen Equipment Regulations 1992 - Regulation 3 (duty to ensure workstations may be usede for the purpose of the undertaking by users and operators by meeting requirements of the Schedule as specified).

Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 - Regulation 3 (duty to carry our risk assessment)

Health and Safety at Work, etc Act 1974 - Section 2 (duty of employer to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of all his employees).

Etc.
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#6 Posted : 19 December 2000 15:31:00(UTC)
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Posted By Phil Roberts
Richard The HSE guidance note HSG 38 gives all the information you would require with regards to legislative backup for your arguments. There are no laid down legal requirements for lighting except "suitable and sufficient" but the Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers has a code for interior lighting which is the guide for the building industry and does give specific values for lighting for various work areas. Hope this is of some assistance, Merry Christmas Phil Roberts
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