Introduction
A sudden power outage can plunge a building into an abyss of darkness unless it is equipped with emergency lights. Having quality emergency lights installed in the building is the first to tackle emergency situations. Safe evacuation requires a proper pathway illuminated with emergency lights so that people can find their way to safety and appropriate steps can be taken for the subsequent rescue operation.
What Is an Emergency Lighting System?
The emergency lighting system provides light in emergency situations and makes sure that the exit route is safely lit, and that all the key areas have enough light. In case of a sudden power outage, the absence of light can create chaos and aggravate the situation threatening the safety of the building and its inhabitants. In such risky situations, emergency light systems illuminate the safe exit route and help in the evacuation of people saving priceless human lives. The installation of an emergency lighting system helps counter the emergency and take appropriate measures in time.
How does the emergency lighting system work?
In order to make sure that the exit route has sufficient light, concerned authorities install emergency lighting systems that ensure a safe supply of light for 90 minutes or so. The system is directly linked to the main power source of the building making sure that the internal batteries are always fully charged, and the system has enough backup to last till the building is evacuated.
Types of emergency lighting systems:
The types of emergency lighting systems depend upon their operation, mode of working, power supply, etc. The following paragraphs list different types of emergency lighting systems.
There are 5+ types of emergency lighting systems depending on their mode of operation:
- Maintained lighting systems
- Non-maintained emergency lighting systems
- Emergency escape lights
- Dali Lighting System
- Standby lights
- Escape route lighting
- Open area lighting
- Central battery System
Maintained Lighting System:
In the maintained lighting systems, the lights are always illuminated.
Non-maintained:
In a non-maintained lighting system the luminaire functions solely as an emergency lighting source, activated only when there is a power outage. The luminaire’s primary power source is the battery, which is charged using the main supply.
Emergency escape lights:
These lights ensure the safe evacuation of the occupants of a building.
DALI EMERGENCY
Imagine walking through a building and feeling safe no matter what surprises come. That’s what DALI emergency lighting provides! It’s a particular type of firm and trustworthy lighting that keeps you and others secure. Using a fancy technology called the DALI protocol, these lights work together seamlessly to ensure the building is always brightly lit, even in an emergency!
Standby lights:
These lights make sure of the normal functioning of the building and are sources of uninterrupted lighting supply.
Escape route lighting:
Escape Route lighting ensures the safety of occupants of a building by illuminating the route to safety. These lights illuminate exit signs and exit pathways.
Open area lighting:
Open area lightings allow the people to gather at a safe place and then evacuate through a safe route.
Central battery source:
Central battery systems obtain power from one source.
How do I wire an emergency light?
Before installing the lights make sure that the power supply is tripped to avoid shock or electrocution. The wiring of the lights is directly connected to the power supply so that it can detect a power outage. In case of a power cut, or a breaker tripping the unit senses the signals and illuminates the safe route for 90 minutes approximately. 2 or 3 connections are made to the power source to make sure that the lights are installed perfectly.
There are 4 wires in the lighting unit:
- 120v wire (black)
- 277v wire (red)
- A common wire (white)
- Ground wire (green – not included on all models)
- Identify the voltage of the connection and connect the correct voltage wire and the common wire to the electrical conduit. If your system requires the connection of the ground wire then connect that too. Finally, power the circuit and let the unit charge for 24 hours, and then test its capacity.
Legal requirements for emergency lighting
The installation of an emergency lighting system is a legal requirement for domestic and commercial buildings. The occupants of the building should be safe at all times. The emergency lighting system should illuminate:
- Emergency safe route
- Key areas
- Exits themselves
- Exit discharges
- Pathways that lead to the exit route
- Lifts
- Stairways
- Outside exit doors
Conclusion:
In conclusion, installing an emergency lighting system in a building is crucial for ensuring the safety of its occupants. These systems provide a reliable light source during emergencies, illuminating exit routes, critical areas, and pathways leading to the exit. if you are looking to buy the right emergency lighting system for the hospital then contact capital solutions fire and safety equipment suppliers.