The majority of these codes effectively address important lighting needs during an emergency. High-performance emergency lighting provides the opportunity to increase safety of all building occupants during emergency situations by delivering the best quality lighting for an extended period of time. Additionally, there are several key considerations when specifying emergency lighting that help exceed code standards and ensure a safe environment:
- Emergency lighting should be powered by a connection independent of the general lighting in the space. Use lighting that features options with multiple battery packs for maximum remote capacity and run time.
- The design of egress, including the number and placement of emergency lights, must enable the prompt escape of building occupants from classrooms, patient rooms, waiting rooms, etc. Therefore, plan the design of where emergency lighting is placed in a building to foster an optimally illuminated escape route to create a safer atmosphere.
- Codes require timing for when and how long emergency lighting must illuminate a building when an emergency occurs. Selecting emergency lighting systems that provide enhanced visibility and constant high output LED lighting for longer than the required timeframe could increase the likelihood of a safe rescue and/or escape.
- Maximum and minimum illumination foot-candles are outlined in codes. Choosing the maximum illumination with features such as refractive optics that provide high and uniform light levels ensures clear vision.
- Select emergency lighting loads that are automatically energized or re-energized within 10 seconds of the electrical power outage… and that stay energized for at least 90 minutes or for the anticipated time of the building evacuation.
The ideal emergency lighting solution for schools and healthcare facilities supports the safe and speedy exit of occupants including students, teachers, patients, healthcare providers and visitors. It also provides on-scene organizers and first responders with the best possible light levels — not just for the first few minutes but well beyond to potentially increase the likelihood of occupants safely exiting the building.
Better Lighting Pays Off in the Long Run
High-performance LED emergency lighting fixtures on the market today not only meet but exceed minimum emergency lighting code requirements. As with all lighting decisions, cost, ease of installation, maintenance, disposal and replacement are key factors impacting the decision-making process. However, the ability of new emergency lighting solutions to increase lighting quality and safety, and minimize the risk of negative outcomes must be factored into the equation.
For example, new high-performance, long-life LEDs with quality battery options — both of which contain built-in redundancies — assure dependable operation for 90 minutes and beyond. Where many emergency lighting units experience decreasing light levels, new light engine technology continues to illuminate passageways at a constant high output level that exceeds code require
ments and produces brighter illumination than traditional incandescent options.
The opportunity for added safety places organizations in a position to develop a strong return on investment that actually exceeds code standards with a payback of increased peace of mind. If the life of a student, teacher, medical provider, patient or visitor can be saved or an injury averted due to an emergency lighting solution that shines brighter, clearer and longer, the decision to exceed specification requirements can be easily justified.
You might also want to read:
- How to Make the Most of Your LEDs
- 4 Lighting Maintenance Tips
- When to Make the Switch to LED Lighting
Scott Galentine is a Lithonia Lighting Value Stream Manager, General Purpose Emergency Products Acuity Brands Lighting Inc. For more information, visit www.lithonia.com.
