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An emergency light is a battery-operated device and activates automatically in the event of a power loss in a building. Emergency lighting is required in high-occupancy residential structures such as hotels, dormitories and new commercial buildings, to guarantee a more secure and safe environment.

Regardless of the type of emergency lighting system, each device is permanently attached to the building’s power source and continually charges its internal battery. In this manner, the lights will remain on during a power loss, helping residents identify the exits, should they need to flee the building.

Types of Emergency Lighting

Many emergency lighting options are available to meet your specific illumination requirements. Internal and exterior bulkhead emergency fittings are the most conventional kinds of emergency lighting systems. These typically feature a polycarbonate body and tray, containing all the components. Most of them can work for three hours without the main’s power, and they recharge when it’s restored.

Fire Emergency Lights

Illuminated fire exit signs, which glow to indicate the location of the exits, are another common type of emergency lighting. These can illuminate a variety of fire warning signs.

LED Emergency Lighting

LED emergency lighting is beginning to gain popularity due to its energy-saving properties. LED downlights are a more recent addition to the market, and there’s an emergency alternative that includes a battery pack for use, in the event of a power outage. There are 1-watt and 3-watt versions which produce over 75 lumens.

Which Emergency Lights Should Be Installed

The best approach to installing an emergency lighting system is to consult an expert who is familiar with your requirements and can provide clear instructions. There are two types of emergency lighting: emergency escape lighting and standby lighting. Consult an expert to determine if you require any or all of the following:

  • Emergency escape lighting offering illumination for the safety of those attempting to exit a building.
  • Legally, standby illumination is not required. However, it permits regular operations to continue if the primary supply fails.

The three sub-categories of emergency escape lights are as follows:

  • The illumination of the escape path, including fire exit signs and emergency lighting bulkheads, which enable the identification of the escape route.
  • Anti-panic lighting or open area lighting provides enough illumination for residents to identify the escape path.
  • Highlighting high-risk job areas ensures the safety of those engaged in a potentially hazardous situation.

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Differences Between Maintained and Non-Maintained Emergency Lights

You will likely encounter the phrases “kept” and “non-maintained” while searching for the emergency lighting fixtures you want. These terms are often linked with emergency lighting equipment, but what is the difference?

Maintained fittings can be controlled by a lighting controller (such as a switch) and can be left on permanently or work only during a power outage. Frequently, maintained lighting is used in places where groups of people congregate, such as at a movie. These lights avoid total darkness, and they are meant to continue functioning during a power outage.

Unless a power outage occurs, unmaintained fixtures will not glow. These forms of emergency lighting are often supplied by a battery which can be recharged using its own power source.

A lighting specialist must conduct regular, thorough testing on both these forms of emergency lighting to guarantee they fulfill the safety criteria for the buildings they inhabit.

Who Can Install Emergency Lighting?

Your system must comply with stringent laws and regulations. Otherwise, you may be subject to penalties of any amount or prosecution. To guarantee your system is built and installed in line with all applicable emergency lighting regulations and rules, it is preferable to engage a certified fire and security installation.

 

Gregg Electric specializes in installing and maintaining various forms of emergency lighting for businesses of all sizes. Call us in Abbotsford at (604) 557-4734 or visit us online for your emergency lighting installation today.