Do you know that every important building must meet all emergency lighting requirements before it is considered safe to work in? The occupants of such buildings must be able to evacuate safely and quickly in an emergency such as a freak fire accident, etc. If the power supply suddenly fails, emergency lighting gets activated so that evacuation will not be halted. 

However, emergency lighting requirements are not to be taken lightly. This is because emergency lighting is now subject to specific legislation for installation and testing. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that it meets the required standard, making it compliant. It should also work when needed the most. 

What is Emergency Lighting? 

Emergency lighting refers to lights that illuminate safe exits and escape routes during an emergency. They usually function independently of the regular power supply and only operate when there is a power failure. 

This helps the evacuating individuals to move safely and quickly without panicking. Most commercial buildings have a legal obligation to install emergency lighting in exits and escape routes. They should also have a minimum backup duration of 1 to 3 hours. 

Most emergency lighting requirements do not usually exceed a generator system, or battery that kicks into gear immediately after the power supply of a particular building is cut during an emergency.  

Early models of emergency lighting were dimly-lit incandescent light bulbs that provide just enough lighting for people to evacuate the building or resolve power supply issues. 

But there has been significant improvement in technology over the years. This has resulted in the development of what is known as LED (light-emitting diode) lighting. 

Why Emergency Lighting is Important 

Emergency lighting is usually the #1 line of escape in an emergency. It is a crucial aspect of active fire prevention systems and must be installed throughout every building type as part of the safety provisions of such buildings. 

Emergency lighting systems should be integral parts of the overall designs of commercial buildings. They help minimize stress and anxiety in the event of a sudden power failure. In the case of a fire, when the power supply could be compromised, the evacuation of occupants in the affected building can be challenging. 

But the provision of emergency lighting provides the visual capabilities required – and comfort – for effective and safe evacuation via stipulated escape routes or exits. 

Emergency lighting also makes it easier for people to readily identify call points, alarm panels, safety equipment, changes of direction, hazards such as stairs, etc., slopes, intersections, and exit points. 

If the immediate area beyond the last exit is shrouded in darkness that may lead to more hazards, there should be a quick risk assessment that will help determine whether or not additional emergency lighting is required until safety is reached and guaranteed. 

Remember that emergency lighting systems are not designed to allow the continuation of regular operation in a building in case of electric power supply failure. Only standby lighting should be used for specific areas where regular activities must continue if the power supply is cut unceremoniously. 

What are the Types of Emergency Lighting? 

Two major categories of emergency lighting systems exist. The first is powered via a central source, while the other receives power from a local source. The latter is often referred to as a ‘self-contained system.’ 

Each of these emergency lighting categories has its pros and cons. You must consider them or consult the professional input of Fraker Fire to help you decide on the type of emergency lighting system that is most suitable for you. 

Central Power (Battery) System 

This emergency lighting system involves the distribution of electric supply to a luminaire – i.e., a lighting fixture – from a central battery source in case of a power failure. The power source is charged and maintained by control equipment and a charger. 

The central battery system is the most efficient power option, especially in medium and large installations or where control or central testing is highly required. The following are the pros of this emergency lighting system: 

• Maintenance and testing are less expensive and easier 
• Batteries can last up to twenty-five years 
• It is highly cost-effective on medium/larger installations 
• Local temperature variations do not really affect slave luminaires 

However, central battery systems also have a few downsides. The battery storage compartment or area must be well-ventilated and separated from other compartments. All cabling must also be made with fire-resistant material. They also require more sub-circuit protection and monitoring appliances. 

Self-Contained System 

The luminaires in this system contain the lamp, battery, control unit, as well as monitoring facilities located within the unit or at least one meter away from the unit. 

When there is a power failure, the luminaire operates independently and automatically from the battery-powered source. The battery can be recharged following a complete or partial discharge as soon as the regular power supply is restored. 

The benefits of the self-contained system include: 

• Zero routine battery maintenance 
• An extendable system without the requirement of any special wiring 
• More cost-effective when used in smaller installations 
• No need for monitoring or separate sub-circuit protection since every device comes with its backup supply 
• The backup power source is located on-site, guaranteeing fail-safe operation 

The self-contained emergency lighting system also has its limitations. The batteries often require replacement within 3-5 years. This can be a costly and burdensome task, especially in large installations. 

The devices are also typically more expensive than slave luminaires. Batteries only function exceptionally well when operating within a specific temperature range. Anything beyond that, the battery may fail to operate as expected. 

Emergency Lighting Requirements You Should Know 

There must be more than enough emergency lighting for people to evacuate the premises due to an emergency. The best way to meet emergency lighting requirements is to ensure your emergency lighting system covers the following: 

• Every exit door 
• Fire alarm triggers 
• Escape routes, including escalators and lifts 
• Stairs and any other trip hazards 
• Intersection of corridors 
• Fire extinguishers 
• All changes in direction 
• Power supplies 
• Fire alarm call points 
• Changes in floor level 
• Fire-fighting equipment 
• Windowless toilets and rooms exceeding 8 square meters 
• Shut down equipment immediately following an emergency 
• Stairways so each flight receives enough light, etc. 

Failure to meet these emergency lighting requirements may put you in trouble with the authorities. 

Conclusion 

Stay up to date when it comes to emergency lighting requirements; this will help minimize the number of casualties that may arise due to an emergency. Ensure no safety laws are broken by staying up to date; all commercial buildings are legally mandated to install emergency lighting systems for the safety of their occupants. 

Fraker Fire offers an extensive range of dedicated and integral emergency lighting/luminaires that are highly compliant with emergency lighting requirements. 

Get in touch with Fraker Fire to learn more about emergency lighting requirements for your ongoing building projects, etc., today!