Emergency lights are a necessity in any public or commercial establishment. By ensuring you have a lighting system installed (and regularly maintained) in your building, you are investing in safety and compliance. Make sure your employees (and any visitors to your establishment) have a clear escape path in an emergency.
Emergency luminaries are integral in the event of a mains power failure. When a power outage occurs, the lights will provide a safely lit path to an exit. Familiarise the occupants of your building with the emergency lighting layout and any evacuation plans you have in place. This will minimise risk if an emergency does occur.
When it comes to choosing an emergency luminary system, there are two types of lighting designs you may consider. These systems are called non-maintained and maintained emergency lighting. The design you choose is entirely your choice, however it familiarising yourself with the available lighting models will help you make an informed decision.
What is maintained emergency lighting?
Maintained emergency lighting is a term used to describe an emergency luminaire system that is in continuous use. This means that the lighting remains illuminated 24/7 and each light has a dual use – one as a regular lamp, and another as an emergency light. Maintained systems can usually be found in the following buildings:
- Theatres
- Cinemas
- Clubs
- Entertainment venues
- Shopping centres
Maintained systems are generally recommended in buildings where the occupants are unfamiliar with the evacuation route. The use of a regular light fitting is less disruptive and confusing for occupants who are unfamiliar with the building layout.
What is non-maintained emergency lighting?
Non-maintained emergency lighting is lighting that only activates during an emergency or mains power failure. At all other times, the lights remain switched off. Non-maintained luminaires can be found in the following environments:
- Commercial buildings
- Offices
- Factories
Non-maintained systems are generally found in buildings where the occupants are familiar with the evacuation plans. The illumination of the backup system will be less concerning to those who are aware of its existence.
Neither system is superior – your choice in lighting should be informed by the nature of your building and its occupants. If you’re unsure which system should be installed in your building, enquire at similar business locations or contact your local council for a recommendation. The AS 2293.1:2005 standard for emergency escape lighting and exit signs for buildings (system design, installation, and operation) should serve as a guide when installing a new system. The compliance requirements for your unique building will be outlined in this standard.
If you have any questions about maintenance requirements, contact our proficient testing and inspection team.
Emergency Lights Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential – no matter the nature of your lighting system. At Jim’s Test & Tag, we offer testing and inspection services to businesses throughout the nation. By ensuring your lighting systems are subject to regular maintenance, you are investing in the safety of your building and the longevity of your emergency system.
Emergency luminaries must be tested every 6 months. This is dictated by the current Australian standard for emergency evacuation lighting for buildings, the AS 2293.2:2005. During this inspection, a technician will conduct a 90-minute discharge test (a power outage simulation) and identify any system faults. The technician will inspect each individual globe and make replacements where required. A 12-monthly inspection is also required with all the same requirements as the 6-monthly test, plus a few additions. The electrical testing professional must inspect and clean the fittings and reflective surfaces. This will help reduce the need for replacement globes and ensure optimum illumination from the current lighting system. LED replacement globes are recommended as a replacement option for increased energy efficiency and lifespan.
Contact our team here at Jim’s Test & Tag for a free quote and arrange an inspection today. We can help you maintain the lighting in your building, no matter the nature of your system. Our technicians are familiar with all types of emergency lighting systems and are more than happy to service your building. With Jim’s Test & Tag, you can be sure that your building is in safe hands.
