Emergency Lights: A Guide to Installation and Maintenance

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worker installing light

Emergency lights are a critical component of any building's safety measures. During unexpected events such as power outages, fires, or other emergencies, these lights play a significant role in preventing panic and ensuring safe evacuation. Emergency lights work independently of the building's primary electrical system and can provide lighting for several hours. Read on to discover the essential knowledge about emergency lights, covering everything from the various types available, installation procedures and proper maintenance practices to prevent possible hiccups.

The Types of Emergency Lights

Learn about the two primary types of emergency lights: maintained and non-maintained. These two lights each both have their pros and cons.

Maintained Emergency Lights

Maintained lights stay on continuously. Engineered to work seamlessly with the primary power supply, these lights offer a reliable backup system that ensures you'll never be left in the dark. During power outages, the maintained lights easily switch over to the backup battery, guaranteeing uninterrupted illumination. Plus, with the added benefit of functioning as primary lighting, you can save on energy bills. The only drawback of maintained lights is their shorter battery life compared to non-maintained lights. Maintained emergency lights provide are dependable and provide peace of mind.

Non-Maintained Emergency Lights

In the event of a power failure, non-maintained emergency lights activate without the need for the main power source. Operating solely on battery power, these lights maximize energy conservation by only activating in emergencies, leading to a longer battery lifespan. However, it's worth noting that these lights may take longer to turn on, with a potential delay in providing lighting. Overall, non-maintained emergency lights offer a reliable and efficient solution for emergency lighting needs.

Emergency Light Installation

Installing emergency lights is crucial for the safety of any building. To ensure that the lights are installed correctly, it's essential to determine the type of lights required and the best location for them. The installation process must comply with safety codes and regulatory requirements, such as UL924 Emergency Lighting and Exit Sign Regulations or NFPA 101, to ensure optimal protection for all building occupants. Once the lights are installed, it's crucial to test them to ensure they function correctly.

Essential Maintenance for Emergency Lights

Don't wait for the next power outage to find out that your emergency lights don't work. Proper maintenance is key to ensuring that they function correctly when you need them most. Routine battery checks are critical, along with the regular cleaning of any accumulated dust or debris that can compromise their effectiveness. It's essential to test their battery backup and functionality both at installation and at regular intervals. Keep your emergency lights in optimal condition with these easy maintenance tips.

When it comes to keeping your building safe, emergency lights are a crucial component. Being informed about the various types of emergency lights, how they're installed, and the crucial nature of testing and maintenance can make all the difference when an emergency strikes. By ensuring that your building has the most up-to-date emergency lighting and frequently testing them, you can significantly decrease the risk of accidents during an emergency. Don't neglect this essential aspect of your building's safety infrastructure - prioritize emergency lighting today.

The material provided in this article is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional/legal advice or substitute government regulations, industry standards, or other requirements specific to any business/activity. While we made sure to provide accurate and reliable information, we make no representation that the details or sources are up-to-date, complete or remain available. Readers should consult with an industrial safety expert, qualified professional, or attorney for any specific concerns and questions.

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Author: Herbert Post

Born in the Philadelphia area and raised in Houston by a family who was predominately employed in heavy manufacturing. Herb took a liking to factory processes and later safety compliance where he has spent the last 13 years facilitating best practices and teaching updated regulations. He is married with two children and a St Bernard named Jose. Herb is a self-described compliance geek. When he isn’t studying safety reports and regulatory interpretations he enjoys racquetball and watching his favorite football team, the Dallas Cowboys.