Categories: Insights

How to Choose the Right Emergency Light for Your Building

Emergency lights are essential for any building to ensure the safety of its occupants during power outages, fires, or other emergencies. They provide illumination and guidance to exit points, reducing panic and confusion.

However, choosing the right emergency lights can be overwhelming, given the variety of options available in the market. In this article, we will discuss the factors you should consider when selecting emergency LED lights for your building.

1. Compliance with Regulations

Before you begin selecting emergency lights packs, it is important to understand the regulations that govern their installation and use. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides guidelines on the minimum requirements for emergency lighting systems.

Additionally, your local building code may have specific requirements for emergency lighting, so be sure to check with your local authorities. Choosing lights that comply with these regulations ensures the safety of your building and its occupants.

2. Type of Building

The type of building you have will determine the type of emergency lighting system you need. For instance, if your building has high ceilings, you may need high-output emergency lights and emergency power supplies that can illuminate large areas.

Similarly, if your building has staircases, you may need stairwell lights that provide guidance to the exits. If you have an outdoor area, you may need weather-resistant emergency lights that can withstand the elements.

3. Type of Emergency

Different emergencies require different types of emergency lighting module. For instance, in the event of a fire, you need lights that can cut through the smoke and provide clear guidance to exit points.

In the event of a power outage, you need emergency lighting products that can last for an extended period. Understanding the type of emergencies that your building is likely to face will help you choose the right type of emergency lighting.

4. Duration of Illumination

The duration of illumination is an important factor to consider when selecting emergency light products. The duration of illumination refers to the amount of time the lights will remain on after a power outage.

The time of illumination for emergency lights varies depending on the customer’s local legislation. For instance, the UK requires emergency lights to last for 3-4 hours, while the Netherlands requires 90 minutes, and some Asian countries require 2 hours. Thus, the duration of illumination is customized to comply with local regulations.

5. Maintenance Requirements

Emergency lights require regular maintenance to ensure they function properly in the event of an emergency. When selecting maintained emergency lights, consider the maintenance requirements.

Some lights require regular testing, while others require periodic battery replacement. Choose maintained emergency lights that have minimal maintenance requirements to reduce the cost and effort of upkeep.

Learn about non-maintained emergency lights and their comparison. Ensure reliable illumination during power outages. Make informed decisions for building safety.

6. Type of Power Source

Emergency lights can be powered by different sources, including battery, generator, and solar power. Each type of power source has its advantages and disadvantages. Battery-powered lights are easy to install and require minimal maintenance, but their duration of illumination is limited. Battery-powered lights are portable lighting devices such as rechargeable emergency lights and Flashlights.

Generator-powered lights have a longer duration of illumination but require fuel and maintenance. Solar-powered lights are environmentally friendly but require sufficient sunlight to function. Choose a power source that meets your needs and budget.

7. Aesthetics

Emergency lights do not have to be an eyesore in your building. Today, there are several attractive designs that can blend in with the decor of your building. You can choose from a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes to suit your building’s design.

Choosing aesthetically pleasing emergency lights can enhance the overall look of your building while still providing safety.

8. Cost

Cost is an important factor to consider when selecting emergency lights. The cost of emergency lights varies depending on the type, quality, and features.

While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, it is important to remember that emergency lights are an investment in the safety of your building and its occupants. Choose lights that meet your needs and budget while still meeting the necessary regulations and requirements.

9. Types of Emergency Lights

There are different types of emergency lights, each designed for specific purposes. The most common types of emergency lights are:

a. Exit Signs

Exit signs are used to provide clear guidance to the exit points during an emergency. They are usually installed above doors or in hallways and are powered by electricity or battery. The benefits of using exit signs include enhanced safety, improved evacuation efficiency, and increased visibility in low-light conditions.

b. Emergency Lights

Emergency lights are designed to provide illumination during a power outage or emergency. They are usually mounted on walls or ceilings and can be powered by electricity, battery, or generator.

c. Stairwell Lights

Stairwell lights are installed in staircases to provide guidance to the exit points during an emergency. They are usually mounted on walls or ceilings and can be powered by electricity, battery, or generator.

d. High-Output Lights

High-output lights are designed for buildings with high ceilings or large open areas. They provide bright illumination and can cover a large area. They are usually mounted on walls or ceilings and can be powered by electricity, battery, or generator.

e. Weather-Resistant Lights

Weather-resistant lights are designed for outdoor areas and are built to withstand harsh weather conditions. They are usually mounted on walls or poles and can be powered by electricity, battery, or solar power.

10. Testing and Maintenance

Emergency lights require regular testing and maintenance to ensure they function properly during an emergency.

The NFPA recommends that emergency lights be tested monthly and that a record of the testing be kept. Testing involves simulating a power outage or emergency and ensuring that the lights activate and remain on for the required duration.

Maintenance requirements vary depending on the type of emergency light. Some lights require periodic battery replacement, while others require cleaning or replacement of the bulbs.

It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance to ensure that the lights function properly in the event of an emergency.

Also read | Why is it necessary to Test Emergency Light?

11. Installation

Emergency lights must be installed correctly to ensure their effectiveness during an emergency. The installation process involves selecting the appropriate locations for the lights, installing the lights according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and connecting the lights to the power source.

It is recommended that emergency lights be installed by a qualified electrician or contractor. Additionally, it’s important to install the emergency backup system as well. Improper installation can lead to a malfunction of the lights during an emergency, compromising the safety of the building and its occupants.

Conclusion

Emergency lights are essential for any building to ensure the safety of its occupants during power outages, fires, or other emergencies. When selecting emergency lights, it is important to consider the regulations, type of building, type of emergency, duration of illumination, maintenance requirements, type of power source, aesthetics, and cost.

Selecting the right emergency lights, including emergency light conversion kits and emergency battery packs, for your building can be overwhelming, but by considering the factors discussed above, you can make an informed decision.

Remember to comply with regulations, consider the type of building and emergencies you are likely to face, choose lights with an appropriate duration of illumination and maintenance requirements, select a power source that meets your needs and budget, and consider aesthetics and cost.

By choosing the right emergency lights, including conversion kits for emergency light and emergency battery packs, you can ensure the safety of your building and its occupants in the event of an emergency.

It is also important to choose the right type of emergency light, test and maintain the lights regularly, and install them correctly. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your building and its occupants are safe during an emergency.

Jenny

Jenny Tan has over 9 years of experience in marketing LED emergency power supply products to the global market with in-depth technical expertise on emergency conversion kits, drivers, rechargeable batteries and lightings of various makes.

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