Emergency Exit Lighting – Why It’s Essential
Commercial buildings in Australia are required to meet strict building standards and fire codes, which are in place to improve building and occupant safety in the event of a fire. Whilst fire detection and sprinkler systems are often the first elements which come to mind, it is also important to consider your emergency exit lighting. In the event of a fire, the emergency lighting system will help building occupants navigate their way to the nearest exit. In this blog post we will be sharing some insight into how emergency lighting functions and where it should be installed in order to optimise fire safety.
How does Emergency Lighting Operate?
Emergency lighting is connected directly to your buildings main power supply. It is also equipped with a battery, which ensures your emergency lights remain functional even if your building loses power.
Most people are familiar with the green/white illuminated emergency escape lighting featuring a running figure and an arrow pointing to the nearest exit. This is the most common type of emergency lighting installed in Australian buildings, however LED lighting installed within the roof and floor is another important element which can help to illuminate a pathway towards the nearest exit.
Emergency lighting is not only an essential element of fire safety. It is an essential component for any evacuation scenario which could range from physical threats through to natural disasters, chemical spills and an unexpected loss of power. Having a clearly defined path and cues pointing to the exit will ensure that all building occupants understand where they need to go, making for a smooth evacuation process.
Where Should Emergency Lighting be Installed?
Emergency exit signage and emergency lighting can be seen within a wide range of buildings in Australia, including:
- Hospitals
- Schools
- Office buildings
- Shopping centres
- Transport hubs
Whilst buildings can often appear well illuminated during the day, most occupants are unaware of just how dark they can be in the event of a major power failure. Emergency lighting should be installed in all parts of the building where people work or congregate, such as offices, hallways and storerooms. In accordance with Australian Standards AS2293, all exit signage and emergency lighting should remain illuminated for at least 90 minutes. Sufficient lighting will ensure that occupants are able to navigate to the nearest exit safely and efficiently, even if the main power to the building is out.
What’s the Difference between Maintained and Non-Maintained Emergency Lighting?
Maintained emergency lighting is the most popular choice for Australian buildings, as it contains a single lamp which is always illuminated via mains power. The back-up battery will be activated in the event of a power outage.
Non-maintained emergency lights are not illuminated when connected to mains power, they are only illuminated in the event of a power outage. The backup battery receives a constant trickle charge via the mains power.
All emergency lighting should be inspected on a 6 monthly basis, and new systems must be installed in accordance with the Building Code of Australia.
Emergency Lighting in Sydney – Contact Astute Fire Today
Emergency lighting is an essential component of fire protection systems. Astute Fire are a leading provider of fire safety solutions in Australia, which include the installation, maintenance and service of exit signs and emergency lighting.
Contact us today to enquire about our range of emergency lighting solutions, we look forward to assisting you.