Celtic continued their game of leap-frog with Old Firm rivals Rangers as they went back to the top of the SPL.
A Henrik Larsson double gave Celtic three points against a Livingston side who had threatened to take something from the game with a late rally.
The win was not without its concerns for manager Martin O'Neill with midfielder Stilian Petrov going off after early on after a facial knock.
The Bulgarian required stitches but Celtic are hoping he will be fit for Thursday's UEFA Cup tie against Celta Vigo in Glasgow.
Petrov's injury occurred as Livingston conceded a fifth-minute penalty when Marvin Andrews collided with the midfielder.
Paul Lambert put the ball in the net but referee Stuart Dougal had already blown for the penalty and Larsson slammed the ball home.
Celtic dominated the first half and should have added to their tally against a disappointing Livingston side.
A Momo Sylla shot was saved by Javier Sanchez Broto in the 16th minute and the goalkeeper had to get down smartly four minutes later to block a Larsson shot with his legs.
Sylla then shot into the sidenetting after Larsson had sent him clear and Livingston were happy to go in at half time just a goal behind.
Livingston improved after the interval and Oscar Rubio and Gary Bollan both came close with headers as they finally asked a few questions of the Celtic defence.
But Celtic were always a threat on the break and Sylla should have done better in the 62nd minute when Larsson cut the ball back but he failed to make proper contact.
Bollan came close to the equaliser with a shot from distance after a short free-kick from Lee Makel which flew just a couple of feet over the crossbar.
The home side came even closer moments later when Andrews sent a header onto the crossbar before Gus Bahoken saw his follow-up shot blocked by Joos Valgaeren.
But Larsson killed off Livingston nine minutes from time with a 16-yard shot which went under Broto.
Livingston responded again and Rab Douglas saved well from Eugene Dadi and Rolando Zarate hit the outside of the post