The U.S. construction industry is raising concerns over potential changes to jobsite lighting regulations proposed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Led by the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of America, a coalition of industry associations warns that rescinding established illumination requirements could jeopardize worker safety and increase costs for contractors.
Concerns Over OSHA’s Proposed Changes
OSHA’s suggestion to eliminate specific illumination standards relates to an executive order from the Trump administration aimed at reducing regulatory constraints. The agency argues that since citations for inadequate lighting are infrequent, the regulations can be withdrawn without adverse effects.
Industry Warnings
However, the AGC, along with groups like the American Road and Transportation Builders Association, the National Asphalt Paving Association, and the National Roofing Contractors Association, contend that this change poses serious risks. They fear it will lead to poorly lit job sites, increasing the incidence of slips, trips, and falls among workers.
- Proper lighting is essential for workplace safety.
- Without regulations, the burden of proving sufficient illumination may fall on contractors.
- Ambiguity in standards could lead to increased claims against employers in the case of accidents.
Potential Impact of Changes
In a recent letter to OSHA’s David Keeling, the coalition pointed out that insufficient lighting could significantly contribute to workplace injuries. The 2025 Liberty Mutual Workplace Safety Index indicated that slips, trips, and falls cost businesses nearly $25 billion annually in medical expenses and lost wages. The proposed rule has the potential to exacerbate this issue in 2026.
Industry Standards and Guidance
The coalition acknowledges the administration’s efforts to alleviate regulatory pressures on contractors. However, they emphasize that maintaining current lighting standards is crucial. They argue that without clear guidelines, OSHA inspectors may enforce inconsistent standards under the general duty clause, leaving contractors uncertain about compliance.
As the coalition notes, “Sufficient illumination is not always obvious. Workers with varying eyesight may have difficulty identifying hazards.” The absence of codified regulations would force the industry to rely on external standards like the American National Standard A11.1-1965, which comes with a $120 price tag.
Safety Risks and Legal Implications
With slips, trips, and falls being the leading cause of fatalities in construction, the coalition expresses concern over any regulatory changes that could heighten this risk. Over the last decade, an average of 371 workers have died each year due to such accidents.
Without existing illumination regulations, the construction industry faces increased vulnerability to negligence claims arising from worksite injuries. The coalition warns that “lack of clarity may invite negligence claims if an employee is injured and sues for both employer and OSHA negligence.”
The AGC and its partners strongly advocate for preserving current jobsite lighting regulations. They maintain that such measures ensure a consistent, objective standard for safety that protects workers and minimizes legal disputes.
