The Ultimate Guide To Emergency Lighting

What is emergency lighting?

Emergency lighting is lighting that is designed to automatically activate in the event of a power outage or other emergency situation where normal lighting is not available. It is typically installed in buildings such as hospitals, schools, offices, and public places like shopping malls, theaters, and airports to provide illumination for evacuation or safety procedures in the event of an emergency.

Emergency lighting systems typically include backup power sources such as batteries or generators, and can be either maintained (always on) or non-maintained (only activated during an emergency). The lighting can be in the form of exit signs, high-intensity floodlights, or low-level ambient lighting that is just enough to guide people safely out of a building or to designated safe areas.

The use of emergency lighting is often required by local building codes and safety regulations to ensure the safety of occupants during emergencies, particularly in areas where large numbers of people gather or where the risk of fire or other hazards is high.

Emergency Lighting

Why is emergency lighting required?

Emergency lighting is required to ensure the safety of people in buildings during emergencies. Here are some reasons why emergency lighting is necessary:

To illuminate escape routes: In the event of a fire or other emergency, normal lighting may be unavailable, making it difficult for people to find their way out of a building. Emergency lighting is designed to illuminate escape routes and guide people safely to exits and other designated areas.
To ensure continuity of operations: Certain operations such as hospitals, data centers, and manufacturing plants require continuous power supply to prevent harm to patients or loss of critical data. Emergency lighting ensures continuity of these operations by providing backup power supply in the event of a power outage.
To comply with regulations: Building codes and safety regulations often require emergency lighting to be installed in buildings to ensure compliance with safety standards.
To reduce panic and confusion: In an emergency situation, people may panic and become confused, leading to injuries and loss of life. Emergency lighting helps to reduce panic and confusion by providing clear illumination and guidance during an emergency.

What are the best practices in emergency lighting?

Emergency lighting is a critical aspect of building safety, especially during times of emergency. Here are some best practices for emergency lighting:

Install emergency lighting in all necessary areas: Emergency lighting should be installed in all areas that are necessary to help people evacuate safely in the event of an emergency. This includes exits, stairways, corridors, and other places where people may need to go to escape.
Use backup power: Emergency lighting should have a backup power source in case of a power outage. This ensures that the lighting will continue to work even if there is a power failure.
Conduct regular testing and maintenance: Regular testing and maintenance are crucial for ensuring that emergency lighting is working properly. This includes monthly testing and annual maintenance to check that all lights are functioning correctly and that backup power sources are in good condition.
Ensure proper placement and coverage: Emergency lighting should be placed in areas where it is most needed and should provide adequate coverage. This means that lighting should be bright enough to illuminate exit signs and paths of egress, but not so bright as to create glare or other hazards.
Use appropriate lighting types: Emergency lighting should be chosen based on the specific needs of the space. This may include the use of fluorescent, LED, or incandescent lighting, depending on factors such as brightness, energy efficiency, and color rendering.
Follow local codes and regulations: Emergency lighting must meet local codes and regulations, which may vary depending on the jurisdiction. Building owners and operators should ensure that emergency lighting is in compliance with all applicable codes and regulations.

By following these best practices, building owners and operators can ensure that emergency lighting is functioning correctly and providing the necessary illumination to help people evacuate safely in the event of an emergency.

What are some various emergency lights?

There are various models of emergency lights used in buildings, each with its own specific purpose. Here are some of the most common categories:

Exit lights: These are the most common type of emergency light and are used to indicate the location of exits during an emergency. They are typically mounted above doors and contain battery backup power to ensure they remain illuminated even if the power goes out.
Emergency escape lights: These lights are designed to illuminate escape routes and ensure that people can safely find their way out of a building during an emergency. They are often installed along walls and in stairwells.
High-intensity discharge (HID) lights: HID lights are very bright and are typically used in large areas such as warehouses, factories, and sports arenas. They are designed to provide bright illumination in the event of a power outage or other emergency.
Floodlights: Floodlights are powerful lights that can be used to illuminate large areas such as parking lots, building exteriors, and outdoor walkways during emergencies.
Low-level path lighting: Low-level path lighting is typically used to provide a low level of illumination along escape routes and emergency exit pathways. They are often installed close to the ground and can be used in conjunction with exit signs to guide people safely out of a building.
Central battery system: A central battery system is a backup power supply that provides power to all emergency lights in a building. These systems are typically used in larger buildings or complexes where it may be difficult or impractical to replace individual batteries in each emergency light.

What are maintained, non-maintained and sustained emergency lights?

Maintained, non-maintained, and sustained are three types of emergency lighting systems that differ in terms of how they operate during normal conditions and emergencies. Here's a brief explanation of each type:

Maintained emergency lights: These are lights that are always illuminated, both during normal conditions and in an emergency. They are typically installed in areas that require continuous lighting, such as hospitals, laboratories, or data centers. Maintained emergency lights are connected to the building's main power supply and have backup batteries that kick in when the power goes out.
Non-maintained emergency lights: These are lights that are only illuminated in an emergency. They are typically installed in areas that are normally well-lit, such as hallways or stairwells. Non-maintained emergency lights are not connected to the building's main power supply but have backup batteries that activate when the power goes out.
Sustained emergency lights: These are lights that can operate in both maintained and non-maintained modes. During normal conditions, the lights are connected to the building's main power supply and function as maintained lights. In an emergency, the lights switch to battery power and function as non-maintained lights. Sustained emergency lights are typically installed in areas where lighting is required for both normal and emergency situations, such as conference rooms, auditoriums, or classrooms.

Overall, the choice between maintained, non-maintained, and sustained emergency lights depends on the specific needs of the building and the type of emergency situations that are most likely to occur.

Maintained emergency lights

Maintained emergency lights are a type of emergency lighting system that is always illuminated, both during normal conditions and in an emergency. These lights are typically installed in areas that require continuous lighting, such as hospitals, laboratories, or data centers, where it is critical to maintain visibility even during a power outage or emergency situation.

Maintained emergency lights are connected to the building's main power supply and have backup batteries that kick in when the power goes out. This means that the lights are always on, even if there is no emergency situation. The backup batteries are designed to provide power to the lights for a certain amount of time, typically between 1-3 hours, depending on the specific system and building code requirements.

During normal conditions, maintained emergency lights operate just like any other light in the building. They are typically controlled by light switches or automatic sensors, and their illumination levels may be adjusted based on the time of day or the specific needs of the area. However, if there is a power outage or other emergency situation, the maintained emergency lights automatically switch to battery power and provide continuous illumination to the area.

Maintained emergency lights come in a variety of styles and designs, including wall-mounted lights, ceiling-mounted lights, and portable lights. They may also be combined with other emergency lighting systems, such as exit signs or egress lighting, to provide a comprehensive emergency lighting solution for the building. Proper maintenance and testing of maintained emergency lights is critical to ensure that they are always functioning properly and ready to provide illumination in an emergency situation.

Non-maintained emergency lights

Non-maintained emergency lights are a type of emergency lighting system that is only illuminated during an emergency situation, such as a power outage or fire. Unlike maintained emergency lights that are always illuminated, non-maintained emergency lights are typically installed in areas that are normally well-lit and do not require continuous lighting, such as corridors, stairwells, and storage rooms.

Non-maintained emergency lights are not connected to the building's main power supply but have their own independent power source, typically a battery or generator. These lights are designed to automatically turn on when there is a power outage or other emergency situation, providing illumination to the area and helping occupants safely navigate to exits or other safe areas.

During normal conditions, non-maintained emergency lights are typically not illuminated and do not draw any power from the battery or generator. However, they are designed to automatically turn on when there is a power outage or other emergency situation, providing a clear and visible source of illumination to the area.

Non-maintained emergency lights come in a variety of styles and designs, including wall-mounted lights, ceiling-mounted lights, and portable lights. They may also be combined with other emergency lighting systems, such as exit signs or egress lighting, to provide a comprehensive emergency lighting solution for the building. Proper maintenance and testing of non-maintained emergency lights is critical to ensure that they are always functioning properly and ready to provide illumination in an emergency situation.

Sustained emergency lights

Sustained emergency lights are a type of emergency lighting system that can operate as both maintained and non-maintained lights, depending on the situation. These lights have the ability to operate as maintained lights during normal conditions, and then switch to non-maintained lights during an emergency situation, such as a power outage or fire.

During normal conditions, sustained emergency lights operate like maintained emergency lights, illuminating the area continuously. They are connected to the building's main power supply and have backup batteries that provide power in case of a power outage. However, unlike maintained emergency lights, the sustained emergency lights have a control system that allows them to switch to non-maintained operation during an emergency situation.

When there is a power outage or other emergency situation, the control system of the sustained emergency lights automatically switches the lights to non-maintained operation, using the backup batteries or generator to power the lights. This ensures that there is always a source of illumination in the area during an emergency, even if the main power supply is not functioning.

Sustained emergency lights are typically installed in areas that require both continuous lighting during normal conditions and emergency lighting during power outages or other emergency situations, such as hospitals, laboratories, and data centers. They come in a variety of styles and designs, including wall-mounted lights, ceiling-mounted lights, and portable lights. Proper maintenance and testing of sustained emergency lights is critical to ensure that they are always functioning properly and ready to provide illumination in an emergency situation.

Which is better: maintained, non-maintained or sustained emergency lights?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best type of emergency lighting system depends on the specific needs and requirements of the building or facility. Each type of emergency lighting system, maintained, non-maintained, and sustained, has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Maintained emergency lights provide continuous lighting during normal conditions and in an emergency situation, ensuring that the area is always illuminated. They are typically installed in areas that require continuous lighting, such as hospitals or laboratories. However, they can be more expensive to install and maintain than other types of emergency lighting systems, as they require a constant power supply and backup batteries.

Non-maintained emergency lights only operate during an emergency situation, providing illumination to the area and helping occupants safely navigate to exits or other safe areas. They are typically installed in areas that are normally well-lit and do not require continuous lighting, such as corridors or stairwells. Non-maintained emergency lights are typically less expensive to install and maintain than maintained emergency lights, as they do not require a constant power supply. However, they may not provide adequate illumination during normal conditions, and may not be suitable for all types of buildings or facilities.

Sustained emergency lights offer the advantages of both maintained and non-maintained emergency lights, providing continuous lighting during normal conditions and switching to non-maintained operation during an emergency situation. They are typically installed in areas that require both continuous lighting and emergency lighting, such as hospitals or data centers. However, they may be more complex to install and maintain than other types of emergency lighting systems, as they require a control system to switch between maintained and non-maintained operation.

Ultimately, the best type of emergency lighting system depends on the specific needs and requirements of the building or facility, as well as the applicable building codes and regulations. A qualified professional, such as an electrical engineer or licensed electrician, can help determine the best type of emergency lighting system for a particular building or facility.

What is the Australian standard for emergency lighting?

The Australian standard for emergency lighting is AS 2293.1-2018 - Emergency escape lighting and exit signs for buildings, which provides guidelines and requirements for the design, installation, inspection, and maintenance of emergency lighting systems in buildings. This standard applies to all new buildings as well as existing buildings undergoing renovations or alterations, and it covers the following aspects:

Design and installation of emergency lighting systems: The standard provides guidelines on the selection, placement, and installation of emergency lighting fixtures and equipment to ensure that they are effective in illuminating the escape path and exit signs during a power failure or other emergency.
Inspection and testing of emergency lighting systems: The standard outlines the procedures for inspecting and testing emergency lighting systems to ensure that they are functioning properly and are in compliance with the relevant standards and regulations.
Maintenance and replacement of emergency lighting systems: The standard provides guidelines on the maintenance and replacement of emergency lighting equipment to ensure that it remains in good working condition and is able to provide adequate illumination during an emergency.
Documentation and record-keeping: The standard requires that documentation and records be kept to demonstrate compliance with the standard, and to assist in the inspection, testing, maintenance, and replacement of emergency lighting systems.

The AS 2293.1-2018 standard applies to all types of buildings, including residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings, and it is enforced by regulatory bodies such as building inspectors, fire safety officers, and electrical safety inspectors.

What is the objectives of the AS 2293 standard?

The AS 2293 standard has several specific objectives, including:

To ensure that emergency lighting and exit signs are provided in all buildings where people are expected to be present during an emergency.
To provide guidelines for the selection, placement, and installation of emergency lighting and exit signs to ensure that they are effective in illuminating the escape path and exit signs during a power failure or other emergency.
To provide guidelines for the inspection, testing, and maintenance of emergency lighting and exit signs to ensure that they remain in good working condition and are able to provide adequate illumination during an emergency.
To provide guidelines for the documentation and record-keeping of emergency lighting and exit sign systems to assist in the inspection, testing, maintenance, and replacement of the system.
To ensure that emergency lighting and exit signs comply with relevant safety standards and regulations, such as building codes, electrical safety regulations, and fire safety regulations.

What is the Australian regulation around emergency lighting?

In Australia, the installation and maintenance of emergency lighting systems are regulated by various state and territory building codes, as well as the Australian Standard AS 2293.2:1995. These regulations set out the requirements for the design, installation, testing, and maintenance of emergency lighting systems in different types of buildings and facilities.

Some of the key requirements for emergency lighting systems in Australia include:

Minimum lighting levels: Emergency lighting systems must provide a minimum level of illumination in the event of a power failure or other emergency situation. The minimum level of illumination varies depending on the type of building or facility, but is typically between 1 lux and 15 lux.
Duration of operation: Emergency lighting systems must operate for a minimum duration of 90 minutes without external power supply, ensuring that occupants have adequate time to evacuate the building in the event of an emergency.
Location of emergency lighting: Emergency lighting must be installed in specific locations within a building or facility, including exit routes, stairways, and other areas where occupants may need to navigate in the event of an emergency.
Testing and maintenance: Emergency lighting systems must be regularly tested and maintained to ensure they are in proper working order. Testing and maintenance requirements vary depending on the type of emergency lighting system and the applicable regulations.

Building owners and managers are responsible for ensuring that emergency lighting systems in their buildings or facilities comply with the applicable regulations. This may require the services of a qualified electrical contractor or other professional to design, install, and maintain the emergency lighting system. Failure to comply with the regulations can result in fines, legal liability, and increased risk to building occupants in the event of an emergency.

Where should emergency lighting be installed?

Emergency lighting should be installed in specific locations within a building or facility to ensure that occupants can safely evacuate in the event of an emergency. The specific requirements for the location and placement of emergency lighting may vary depending on the type of building or facility, the applicable building codes and regulations, and the specific hazards or risks present in the building.

However, some general guidelines for the installation of emergency lighting in buildings include:

Exit routes: Emergency lighting should be installed along exit routes, including corridors, stairwells, and ramps, to ensure that occupants can safely navigate to exits in the event of an emergency. Exit signs should also be installed to indicate the direction of the nearest exit.
High-risk areas: Emergency lighting should be installed in areas that present a higher risk to occupants, such as areas with hazardous materials or equipment, or areas where there is a risk of fire or explosion.
Emergency equipment: Emergency lighting should be installed near emergency equipment, such as fire extinguishers or first aid kits, to ensure that occupants can locate and use the equipment in an emergency.
Assembly areas: Emergency lighting should be installed in assembly areas, such as auditoriums or meeting rooms, to ensure that occupants can safely exit the building in the event of an emergency.
Areas without natural light: Emergency lighting should be installed in areas without natural light, such as basements or windowless rooms, to ensure that occupants can safely navigate in the event of a power failure or other emergency situation.

Ultimately, the installation of emergency lighting should be based on a careful assessment of the building or facility and its specific hazards and risks, and should be done in accordance with the applicable building codes and regulations. A qualified professional, such as an electrical engineer or licensed electrician, can help determine the specific requirements for emergency lighting in a particular building or facility.

Where should exit signs be installed?

Exit signs should be installed in specific locations within a building or facility to ensure that occupants can safely evacuate in the event of an emergency. The specific requirements for the location and placement of exit signs may vary depending on the type of building or facility, the applicable building codes and regulations, and the specific hazards or risks present in the building.

However, some general guidelines for the installation of exit signs in buildings include:

Above exits: Exit signs should be installed above all designated exits, including doors, windows, and other means of egress. The sign should be placed in a location that is visible from any vantage point along the exit route.
Along exit routes: Exit signs should be installed along exit routes, including corridors, stairwells, and ramps, to ensure that occupants can safely navigate to exits in the event of an emergency. The signs should be placed at regular intervals along the route to ensure that occupants can see the next sign from any point along the way.
Changes in direction: Exit signs should be installed at locations where the exit route changes direction, such as at corners or intersections, to ensure that occupants can see the direction they need to travel.
Obstructions: Exit signs should be installed in a location where they are visible and not obstructed by any other objects, such as furniture or equipment.
Emergency equipment: Exit signs should be installed near emergency equipment, such as fire extinguishers or first aid kits, to ensure that occupants can locate and use the equipment in an emergency.

How big should emergency lights and exit signs be in Australia?

In Australia, the size requirements for emergency lights and exit signs are specified in the Australian Standard AS 2293.1 - Emergency escape lighting and exit signs for buildings. The standard provides guidelines on the minimum size, luminance, and placement of emergency lights and exit signs in buildings to ensure that they are visible and effective in the event of an emergency.

According to AS 2293.1, the minimum height of an exit sign should be 120mm, and the minimum letter height should be 20mm. The minimum width of the exit sign should be 300mm for a single-sided sign and 400mm for a double-sided sign. The exit sign should have a luminance of at least 30 cd/m², and it should be clearly visible from any point along the exit route.

The size requirements for emergency lights may vary depending on the specific type of light and the location where it is installed. However, AS 2293.1 specifies that the luminous area of an emergency light should be at least 100cm², and the minimum height of the light source should be 2.5m above the finished floor level. The emergency light should be positioned to provide sufficient light along the escape route and ensure that the exit sign is clearly visible.

It's important to note that the size requirements for emergency lights and exit signs may vary depending on the specific building codes and regulations in different states and territories within Australia. It's recommended to consult with a qualified professional, such as a fire safety engineer or licensed electrician, to ensure that the emergency lighting and exit signs in a particular building or facility meet the relevant standards and regulations.

In Australia, how does the viewing distance of the exit sign determine its size?

In Australia, the viewing distance of an exit sign is one of the factors that determine its size. The Australian Standard AS 2293.1 - Emergency escape lighting and exit signs for buildings provides guidelines on the minimum size and lettering height of exit signs based on their viewing distance.

According to AS 2293.1, the size of an exit sign should be based on its maximum viewing distance. The maximum viewing distance is the farthest point at which the sign needs to be visible in order to guide occupants towards the exit. The size of the sign is determined by its lettering height, which is the height of the largest letter or numeral on the sign.

The standard provides the following formula for determining the minimum lettering height of an exit sign based on its maximum viewing distance:

Lettering height (mm) = Viewing distance (m) / 8

For example, if the maximum viewing distance of an exit sign is 16 meters, its minimum lettering height would be:

Lettering height = 16m / 8 = 2m

In this case, the minimum lettering height for the exit sign would be 200mm.

Using this formula, the minimum lettering heights for the given viewing distances would be:

For a viewing distance of 10m: 10m / 8 = 1.25m or 125mm
For a viewing distance of 16m: 16m / 8 = 2m or 200mm
For a viewing distance of 24m: 24m / 8 = 3m or 300mm
For a viewing distance of 32m: 32m / 8 = 4m or 400mm
For a viewing distance of 40m: 40m / 8 = 5m or 500mm

It's important to note that the above formula provides a minimum lettering height, and the actual size of the sign may need to be larger depending on the specific requirements of the building codes and regulations in different states and territories within Australia. It's recommended to consult with a qualified professional, such as a fire safety engineer or licensed electrician, to ensure that the exit signs in a particular building or facility meet the relevant standards and regulations.

In which rooms should emergency lights be installed?

Emergency lights should be installed in all rooms and areas where people are expected to be present in the event of an emergency or power failure. This includes but is not limited to:

Corridors and stairwells: These areas are important escape routes in case of an emergency, and emergency lighting is necessary to illuminate the path and guide occupants towards the nearest exit.
Public spaces: Emergency lighting should be installed in areas such as lobbies, reception areas, waiting rooms, and other public spaces where people are likely to congregate.
Workspaces: Emergency lighting is necessary in areas where people are working, such as offices, laboratories, factories, and other workplaces.
Storage areas: Emergency lighting should be installed in storage areas, such as warehouses and stockrooms, to ensure safe evacuation during a power failure or other emergency.
Restrooms: Emergency lighting should also be installed in restrooms to ensure safe evacuation during an emergency.

In general, the placement of emergency lighting should follow the principles of providing sufficient illumination to the escape path and exit signs, and should be installed in such a way that it does not create confusion or lead occupants in the wrong direction.

How long should emergency lights be illuminated for?

In Australia, the length of time that emergency lights should be illuminated for can vary depending on the situation and the type of emergency.

For example, when a building's fire alarm is triggered, the emergency lights should be illuminated for a minimum of 90 minutes. This is to ensure that there is adequate lighting for people to safely evacuate the building in the event of a power failure.

In other emergency situations, such as a power outage or a natural disaster, the length of time that emergency lights should be illuminated for will depend on the severity and duration of the emergency. It is generally recommended that emergency lights be equipped with backup batteries that can last for at least 90 minutes, but longer-lasting batteries may be necessary in certain situations.

Do exit signs need to be green?

Yes, in Australia, exit signs are required to be green in color. This is specified in the Australian Standard AS 2293.1-2005, which outlines the requirements for emergency evacuation lighting and exit signs in buildings.

According to the standard, exit signs must be easily recognizable and distinguishable from other signs and symbols used in the building. The use of green color is recommended because it is commonly associated with safety and escape routes, and it provides good contrast with other colors and backgrounds.

Do exit signs have to have arrows?

Yes, in Australia, exit signs are required to have arrows indicating the direction of the exit. This is specified in the Australian Standard AS 2293.1-2005, which outlines the requirements for emergency evacuation lighting and exit signs in buildings.

The standard specifies that exit signs must have an arrow that clearly indicates the direction of the nearest exit. The arrow should be oriented in the direction of travel to the exit, and it should be of sufficient size and brightness to be visible from a distance and in low light conditions.

How close to exits should exit signs be installed?

In Australia, exit signs must be installed in a position that clearly indicates the direction of the nearest exit and is visible from any point within the area served by the exit. The exact distance between the exit sign and the exit may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the building or area, but in general, exit signs should be placed in close proximity to the exits they indicate.

The Australian Standard AS 2293.1-2005 specifies that exit signs should be installed so that the distance between the sign and the exit does not exceed the viewing distance specified for the sign. For example, a viewing distance of 30 meters is specified for an exit sign with a pictogram measuring 150 mm x 150 mm. This means that the sign should be installed so that it is clearly visible from any point within 30 meters of the exit.

In addition to these requirements, the standard also specifies that exit signs should be installed in a manner that ensures they are not obstructed or obscured by other objects, such as furniture or decorations. This helps to ensure that the signs are clearly visible and legible in an emergency situation, when time is of the essence.

Is there a limit on mounting height of emergency lights?

Yes, in Australia there are specific guidelines for the mounting height of emergency lights. These guidelines are specified in the Australian Standard AS 2293.1-2005, which outlines the requirements for emergency evacuation lighting and exit signs in buildings.

According to the standard, the mounting height of emergency lights should be such that the light distribution is adequate to illuminate the path of egress and the surrounding area, but not so high that it becomes difficult to locate the exit or the light itself. The standard recommends that the mounting height for emergency lights should be between 2.4 meters and 2.7 meters above the finished floor level.

However, it is important to note that the specific requirements for mounting height may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the building or area. For example, in areas with low ceilings, such as basements or storage rooms, the mounting height may need to be lower to ensure adequate illumination. In areas with high ceilings, such as atriums or lobbies, the mounting height may need to be higher to ensure adequate coverage.

How often should emergency lights be tested?

In Australia, the testing requirements for emergency lighting are outlined in the Australian Standard AS 2293.2-1995, which provides guidelines for the maintenance of emergency lighting systems.

The standard recommends that emergency lighting systems should be regularly tested to ensure that they are operating correctly and providing adequate illumination in the event of an emergency. The frequency of testing will depend on the specific circumstances of the building and the type of emergency lighting system installed.

As a general guideline, the standard recommends that emergency lighting systems should be tested in accordance with the following schedule:

Monthly testing: All emergency lights should be visually inspected to ensure that they are clean, free from damage, and operating correctly. This test should also ensure that the battery backup is functioning properly.
Six-monthly testing: A functional test should be performed on all emergency lights to ensure that they operate correctly in the event of a power failure. This test should involve simulating a power failure and ensuring that the emergency lights operate correctly for the duration specified in the standard.
Annual testing: An extended functional test should be performed on all emergency lighting systems. This test should be conducted for a period of 90 minutes to ensure that the battery backup is capable of providing the required level of illumination for the specified duration.

It is important to note that the specific testing requirements for emergency lighting may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the building or area. It is recommended to consult with a qualified professional to determine the most appropriate testing schedule for a given building or area.

What are the steps in planning emergency lighting?

Planning emergency lighting involves a series of steps to ensure that the emergency lighting system is designed and installed to meet the specific needs of the building or area. The steps may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the building or area, but generally include the following:

Identify the applicable regulations and standards: Review the relevant regulations and standards that apply to the building or area to ensure that the emergency lighting system is designed and installed in compliance with the requirements.
Conduct a risk assessment: Identify the potential hazards and risks in the building or area, and determine the specific areas that require emergency lighting. This may include identifying the exit paths, stairways, and areas where occupants may need additional illumination to evacuate safely.
Determine the type and placement of emergency lighting: Select the appropriate type of emergency lighting that meets the needs of the building or area, and determine the optimal placement of the lights to ensure that they are visible and provide adequate illumination.
Design the emergency lighting system: Develop a detailed design for the emergency lighting system, including the number of lights required, the location and orientation of the lights, the wiring and power supply requirements, and the battery backup system.
Install the emergency lighting system: Install the emergency lighting system according to the design and specifications developed in the previous steps. Ensure that the installation is performed by qualified professionals and complies with all relevant regulations and standards.
Test and maintain the emergency lighting system: Regularly test and maintain the emergency lighting system to ensure that it is operating correctly and providing adequate illumination in the event of an emergency. This includes regular testing of the lights, battery backup system, and wiring to ensure that they are functioning correctly.
Train building occupants: Educate and train building occupants on the location and function of the emergency lighting system, as well as the appropriate response in the event of an emergency.

How can I check that an emergency light is being charged?

To check whether an emergency light is being charged, you can follow these steps:

Find the battery compartment: Depending on the model, the battery compartment may be located on the bottom or back of the emergency light. It may be covered by a plate that can be removed by sliding it off or unscrewing it.
Check the battery terminals: Once you have access to the battery compartment, check the battery terminals to ensure that they are clean and free from corrosion. If the terminals are dirty, you can clean them with a soft cloth or a wire brush.
Check the battery connections: Check that the battery is securely connected to the terminals. If the battery is loose, reposition it so that it makes a tight connection with the terminals.
Check the charging circuit: Locate the charging circuit, which may be a small board or electronic component inside the emergency light. Check that the charging circuit is securely connected to the battery terminals.
Check the charging indicator light: Many emergency lights have a charging indicator light that shows whether the battery is being charged. This light may be red, green, or amber depending on the model. If the charging indicator light is not lit, it may indicate that there is a problem with the charging circuit or battery.
Check the battery voltage: If you have a multimeter, you can check the battery voltage to determine whether it is being charged. To do this, set the multimeter to measure DC voltage and connect the probes to the positive and negative battery terminals. If the battery voltage is increasing, it indicates that the battery is being charged.

If you are unsure about how to check whether an emergency light is being charged, it is recommended to consult the manufacturer's instructions or contact a qualified professional for assistance.

How can I check that an emergency light is working correctly?

Checking that an emergency light is working correctly is important for ensuring that it can provide illumination during an emergency situation. Here are some steps you can follow to check that an emergency light is working correctly:

Check the power source: Make sure the emergency light is connected to a power source, such as an electrical outlet or backup battery, and that the power source is functioning properly.
Trigger the emergency mode: If your emergency light has a test button or switch, activate it to simulate a power outage and switch the light to its emergency mode. If it doesn't have a test button or switch, you can simply unplug it from the electrical outlet to trigger the emergency mode.
Observe the light output: The emergency light should produce enough light to illuminate the surrounding area. Check that the light is bright enough and that the beam is directed in the right direction.
Check the battery life: If your emergency light has a battery backup, check the battery life. The battery should have enough power to keep the light on for at least 90 minutes.
Check for damage or defects: Inspect the emergency light for any visible damage or defects that may impair its performance. Look for cracks, loose wires, or other signs of wear and tear.
Document your findings: If you notice any issues with the emergency light, make note of them and report them to the appropriate person or department. This will help ensure that the problem is addressed and that the light is functioning properly when it is needed.

How bright should emergency lighting be?

The emergency lighting standard in Australia is specified by AS 2293.1:2018, which is the Australian Standard for "Emergency escape lighting and exit signs for buildings".

According to this standard, emergency lighting must provide sufficient illumination to allow occupants to evacuate a building safely in the event of a power failure or other emergency. The minimum illumination level required for emergency lighting is 1 lux (lumen per square meter) measured at the floor level.

However, the standard also recognizes that different types of buildings and spaces may have different lighting needs, and provides guidelines for determining appropriate illumination levels based on factors such as the size and complexity of the building, the number and type of occupants, and the potential hazards present.

Overall, the key requirement of the emergency lighting standard in Australia is to ensure that emergency lighting is bright enough to provide safe and effective illumination during an emergency, while also taking into account the specific needs and characteristics of each building and space.

What is Australian emergency lighting classification using letters and numbers?

The Australian emergency lighting classification system uses letters and numbers to indicate the different types and subtypes of emergency lighting.

The first letter indicates the type of emergency lighting, with "E" representing Emergency escape lighting and "S" representing Standby lighting.

The second letter indicates whether the emergency lighting is Maintained or Non-maintained, with "M" indicating Maintained and "NM" indicating Non-maintained.

The third letter indicates the Duration of the emergency lighting, with "D" indicating 90 minutes duration and "2D" indicating 120 minutes duration.

The number after the letters indicates the specific subtype or characteristic of the emergency lighting, as follows:

"1" indicates a basic emergency light fitting with a single lamp.
"2" indicates an emergency light fitting with two lamps.
"3" indicates an emergency light fitting with three lamps.
"4" indicates an emergency light fitting with four lamps.
"5" indicates an emergency light fitting with five lamps.
"6" indicates an emergency light fitting with six lamps.

For example, "EM-D2-3" would indicate Emergency escape lighting that is Maintained, has a Duration of 120 minutes, and uses a fitting with three lamps. Similarly, "SNM-D-1" would indicate Standby lighting that is Non-maintained, has a Duration of 90 minutes, and uses a basic fitting with a single lamp.

What type of batteries are used in emergency lights?

The battery technology used in emergency lighting systems is critical to ensuring that the lights will function when needed. Here's an overview of the battery technologies commonly used in emergency lighting systems:

Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) Batteries: These are the most common type of batteries used in emergency lighting systems. They are cost-effective, reliable, and easy to maintain. SLA batteries are rechargeable and can last up to five years or more with proper maintenance.
Nickel Cadmium (NiCad) Batteries: These batteries are also commonly used in emergency lighting systems. They are known for their long lifespan, high energy density, and resistance to extreme temperatures. NiCad batteries require less maintenance than SLA batteries but are more expensive.
Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) Batteries: These batteries are becoming more popular in emergency lighting systems due to their high energy density, lightweight, and long lifespan. They are also more expensive than SLA and NiCad batteries, but they require less maintenance and can last up to 10 years or more.
Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Batteries: These batteries have a high energy density and are lightweight, making them an attractive option for emergency lighting systems. However, they are less common than the other battery types mentioned above due to their higher cost.

Disclaimer

This web page is provided on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own decisions and assessment on emergency lighting and are advised to verify all statements and information with qualified emergency lighting experts. Lighting Style does not accept any liability for any injury, loss or damage incurred by use of or reliance on this information. Readers of this page are cautioned not to place any reliance on material herein.