Occupational Safety and Health Administration Logs

Is there any OSHA Regulation about fluorescent lighting being uncovered?

My boss wants to take the covers off of our Fluorescent lights in order to give us more light in our kitchen, but it doesn't seem safe to me. So I was wondering if there are any OSHA codes about this particular topic. Thanks!

Public Comments

I am NOT sure about OSHA, as they are their to promote safety in the workplace However AROUND ANY FOODS Most cities Department of Health will not allow it. Tell your boss to buy McGill Tube gaurds they are clear and will not cut the light's output more than a small percentage OR to buy Safety coated flourescents like those made by Encapsulite or Shattersheild. Lighting Professional 34 years
Are you talking about the plastic cover that covers the entire light fixture or the plastic sleeves that just cover the bulb proper. I imagine that if the cover is removed then the bulbs will probably have to be replaced with those that have the sleeves on them. That's to prevent injury to you in the event of breakage.
OSHA regulation? Probably not, local health area regulations? Probably so. Contact your local health department and ask.
It is found in the national electrical code, which is referenced by OSHA. Covers are not required unless accessible in normal work. So if you can reach the fixture by just reaching up, covers are required.