Lighting Up the Night: Key Considerations for Emergency Lighting

Your emergency lighting system includes emergency lights and exit signs that guide people to
safety in the event of a fire or power outage. The National Fire Code (NFC) is the standard that sets guidelines for the design, installation, and maintenance of emergency lighting systems. In this article, we will discuss emergency lighting, the requirements of the NFC, how emergency lighting is designed, and the importance of regular maintenance.

Understanding the Importance of Emergency Lighting

Emergency lighting plays a critical role in ensuring the safety of residents in the event of an emergency.

In the event of a power outage, emergency lights provide illumination so people can move and evacuate safely. They are especially important in large buildings such as offices, schools, hospitals, and shopping centers, where a sudden power outage can cause panic and confusion.

In emergency situations, visibility is often limited due to smoke, darkness, or unfamiliar surroundings. Emergency lighting helps minimize these challenges by providing a reliable source of light. It ensures that fire exits, stairwells, hallways, and other escape routes are well lit and people can find their way quickly and efficiently.

In addition, emergency lighting also helps emergency responders such as firefighters and rescue teams perform their duties efficiently by helping them move around the building.

When building owners and managers understand the importance of emergency lighting, they can prioritize designing and installing an effective system that meets the requirements of national fire codes.

National Fire Code Requirements   

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets the standards for emergency lighting systems through its NFPA 101: Life Safety Code. This code provides guidelines for various aspects of emergency lighting, including signage, lighting levels, testing requirements, and operating time.

According to NFC, emergency lighting systems must be designed to provide light for at least 90 minutes during a power outage. This means that emergency lights and escape signs must be able to operate independently of the power grid for at least 90 minutes.

To meet National Fire Code requirements, building owners and managers should consulta professional to conduct a thorough assessment of their facility’s emergency lighting needs.

This assessment consists of identifying areas that require emergency lighting, determining the

appropriate lighting levels for each area and selecting appropriate emergency lighting fixtures.

Ideal Placement of Emergency Lighting Units   

Proper placement of emergency lights is critical to maximize their effectiveness in an emergency and to comply with fire codes. Placement should be carefully planned to ensure adequate coverage and visibility within the building so that people can easily get to safety.

Emergency lights should be placed near exits, stairwells, elevators and other critical escape routes. They should also be installed in areas where people congregate, such as meeting rooms, conference rooms and common areas.

Emergency lights are typically mounted on the ceiling or wall. Exit signs should be placed near exits and illuminated so that they are clearly visible from any vantage point. Exit signs with integrated emergency lighting are often used to simultaneously indicate the location of emergency exits and provide lighting in the event of a power failure.

Appropriate Emergency Lighting Fixtures   

Emergency lights and exit signs are powered by an emergency system lighting and signage in the event of a power outage. The emergency system must provide power to lights and panels for at least 90 minutes. Emergency lighting units can be powered in a variety of ways, such as batteries built into the lights themselves, by connecting to a generator, or by connecting to a central battery. The choice of power source depends on factors such as the size of the building, anticipated occupancy, and the duration of the emergency power required.

It is important to select lighting fixtures that are compatible with the building’s electrical system and meet the required safety standards. These fixtures must be properly installed by qualified professionals to ensure functionality and compliance with fire codes.

Importance of Regular Testing and Maintenance

Emergency lighting systems must be regularly inspected, tested, and maintained to ensure proper operation. This includes checking and repairing the condition of batteries, bulbs, and other components, and conducting periodic functional tests.

Testing should be performed according to the guidelines in NFPA 101: Life Safety Code. This typically includes monthly testing to ensure the emergency lights are functioning properly. In addition, a comprehensive annual audit must be performed by a qualified professional verifies the system’s ability to provide lighting for the required duration.

For compliance and documentation purposes, it is important to keep detailed records of all testing and maintenance activities.

At McBride Lighting & Electrical Services, we can meet all of your emergency lighting needs. Contact us to learn more and get started.