Emergency Lighting
battery supply where a battery cabinet is located somewhere in the building and the emergency luminaires are wired from it using fire protected cable. This is fast becoming the option of preference as the cable type has come down in cost dramatically recently and central batteries will often last >10years. One major benefit is that there is no need to
replace the battery packs in the ceilings any more thus avoiding costly podium steps, scaffolding and/or damage to plasterboard or tile ceiling.
The second power source is contained within, or next to, the luminaire as part of the fitting. The chemistry of these batteries is also something which can be investigated with modern packs using Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) to give better performance than the more familiar Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) Battery. Recent high profile failures of certain battery chemistries have shown that the wrong selection of battery can have a very serious impact on the safety of the system. Each battery has its benefits, whilst the temperature and environment in which the emergency lighting is housed has an impact on battery performance and lifespan.
Combined luminaires Both supply options can be set to be maintained (always on) or non-maintained (only on when power fails). Combined luminaires where there were previously two lamps, one for standard supply and one for emergency supply, are becoming uncommon, although LED board manufacturers are looking at this as a clever solution to have a few dedicated LEDs for emergency within a standard module. By focusing on real world application
requirements and the factors talked about above, such as the way the emergency lighting scheme is powered, maintained and operated you can stay on the right side of compliance. The main point is to be aware that
emergency lighting has evolved, the same as general lighting. There needs to be more emphasis on integrating an emergency lighting system which gives preference to the needs of the occupants rather than the short term needs of getting sign-off on the building. The ultimate aim has to be the creation of a safe and compliant system that is future proof and fit for purpose.
www.zumtobel.com/gb-en
The refurbishment of Ultima’s HQ in Reading includes dedicated emergency luminaires that are future proof but also complement the sleek, sophisticated lighting scheme throughout the facility.
Of course, there is also the question of cost and many building
operators may be tempted to go for the cheapest option that will enable them to comply with the regulations. This is a short-sighted approach that fails to take account of the lifetime costs of such a system.
www.ewnews.co.uk August 2018 electrical wholesaler | 21
Energie Fitness has replaced old fluorescent batten fittings with Zumtobel’s Tecton LED luminaires to allow for all functions such as power supply, lighting control and emergency lighting to be seamlessly integrated into the multifunctional trunking system.
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