Employees Changing Fluorescent Tubes Without Training

A recent survey of 1,000 people by online fluorescent tube retailer LampShopOnline has revealed that almost a quarter of office workers have changed a fluorescent light tube at work without appropriate safety knowledge.

Faulty or dead fluorescent tubes in the workplace can cause health issues such as headaches, migraines and eye strain, which can cost businesses millions of pounds each year.

Poor lighting can also put employees at risk of trips and falls, as well as reducing staff productivity.

Many business owners are unaware that it is their responsibility to maintain the lighting in the workplace, so the burden often falls on employees.

The survey also showed that 58 per cent of employees don't actually know how to change a fluorescent tube, which presents real safety issues.

Commenting on the findings, Rob Holroyd from LampShopOnline, said:

"The results of the survey are worrying as employers are not taking responsibility for the lighting in their building, which is a key maintenance issue. In the United Kingdom, The Health and Safety Executive states that employers are responsible for maintaining lighting in the workplace which implies they might be breaking the law by not stepping up and looking after their lighting.

"Indeed, employers need to regularly assess and maintain the lighting in their premises to ensure employees don't have to take matters into their own hands and put themselves at risk."