Emergency Exit Lighting in Clayton NC | Sales, Service, & Installation
Emergency lighting can mean the difference between disorganized panic and an orderly, life-saving evacuation from your building. It is a type of backup lighting that automatically activates when the power goes out, making it easy for people to navigate the building safely and efficiently. Emergency lighting is essential--and required by law--for buildings of all shapes and sizes, from small offices to towering skyscrapers.
The importance of emergency lighting cannot be overstated, as it serves as a vital tool in ensuring the safety of all occupants in the building, whether they are employees, guests, or even passersby in an emergency situation. Emergency lighting is a must-have for any building to comply with building codes and ensure the safety of all in times of darkness or emergency.
Contact the fire protection experts at Safeguard at 984-226-4879 to select and install the correct emergency exit signs and lighting for your building or office.
Emergency Lighting FAQs
Regulations and codes for emergency lighting are designed to ensure safety during power outages. Key guidelines include the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 101: Life Safety Code, which mandates that emergency lighting must illuminate exit routes and egress paths for at least 90 minutes. The International Building Code (IBC) and OSHA standards also specify requirements for installation, testing, and maintenance. Local building codes may have additional specifications. Compliance ensures that emergency lighting systems are effective and reliable in providing safe evacuation during emergencies.
The maintenance requirements for emergency lighting include regular testing, inspection, and replacement of components as needed. Monthly functionality tests ensure the lights operate during a power outage, while annual full discharge tests verify the system can sustain the required emergency duration (usually 90 minutes). Keep the batteries charged and replace them as recommended by the manufacturer. Additionally, ensure light bulbs are functioning properly and check the wiring for any damage. Regular maintenance ensures the system remains reliable and compliant with safety regulations.
To ensure emergency lighting meets safety codes, regularly schedule inspections and testing by certified professionals who understand current regulations. Monthly function tests and annual full-duration tests are typically required for compliance. Confirm that emergency lights provide sufficient illumination along exit paths and stay lit for at least 90 minutes during a power outage. Keep records of all maintenance and testing, as documentation is often necessary for regulatory compliance and audits. Upgrading to code-compliant LED fixtures can also improve reliability and efficiency.
Emergency Lighting Requirements in North Carolina
In North Carolina, the requirements for emergency lighting are outlined in the North Carolina Fire Code. Some of the main requirements include:
- Exit signs and illuminated exit pathways must be provided in areas with a maximum occupant load of 50 or more, or where required by the applicable codes and standards.
- Exit signs must be placed in a conspicuous location and must be illuminated at all times by a reliable light source.
- Illuminated exit pathways must be clearly marked, continuous, and unobstructed. The intensity of the illumination must be not less than one foot-candle (lumen per square foot) at the floor level.
- The emergency lighting system must be connected to a reliable power source. In the event of a power outage, the system must be designed to provide illumination for a period of not less than 90 minutes.
- The emergency lighting system must be tested periodically to ensure it is working correctly. Monthly and annual tests must be conducted, including a 30-second functional test and a 90-minute full discharge test.
- Records of installation, inspection, and maintenance of the emergency lighting system must be kept on file for at least one year.
It's important to note that these are general requirements, and other specific requirements of your building may apply, so it's always best to consult with your local authority having jurisdiction or a licensed fire protection company to determine the exact requirements for your building.
Though this may seem like a lot to handle at first glance, the good news is that Safeguard is your one-stop shop for keeping you compliant with emergency lighting requirements in North Carolina.
We'll Keep You On Track!
At Safeguard, we offer all the products and expert installation services you need to get your building up to code and safe. If you already have emergency lighting, we are more than happy to fix any issues that may be popping up, such as battery failure, inadequate illumination, or flickering or malfunctioning lights. Not sure where to start? No worries, just give us a call today and a fire protection expert will assess your needs and help you get started!