With the environment progressively becoming more complex and densely populated, emergency preparedness becomes more necessary. This leads to a simultaneous increase in safety concerns, which becomes more pronounced when a portion of the population is unfamiliar with the surroundings and established protocols.
Challenges regarding safety can be witnessed in expansive, densely populated, high-risk establishments like train stations, malls, airports, stadiums, etc. But, many people fail to realize that this can also be applied to smaller places with simpler layouts.
This is where the importance of emergency lights comes into play.
The Role of Emergency Lights for Safeguarding Lives
The Philippines is placed in the Pacific Ring of Fire, which means emergencies like volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis can happen at any time of the year. Hence, an emergency light in Philippines is a highly crucial survival device.
These lights are pivotal in ensuring a secure, swift, and effective evacuation for areas and buildings. The good thing about emergency lights is that they operate not only during blackouts but also when natural light and regular lighting are present yet feeble.
Testing Emergency Lighting
Testing emergency lighting refers to assessing and validating a property’s emergency lighting system. This assessment aims to ensure that a building’s emergency lights operate as intended during power outages, emergencies, or other situations where the main power supply is unavailable. Regular testing is crucial to verify that the emergency lighting will effectively guide occupants to safety and support evacuation procedures.
How often is the required emergency lighting testing?
The frequency of testing for emergency lights can vary based on regulations, standards, and the building or facility’s specific requirements. However, there are three standard types of tests that are conducted at different intervals.
- Monthly Functional Test
- This test is typically performed monthly.
- It involves a brief activation of the emergency lighting system (usually 30 seconds to 1 minute) to ensure the lights turn on when the regular power supply is disconnected.
- This test aims to verify the basic functionality of the emergency lights quickly.
- Annual Duration Test
- The yearly duration test is conducted once a year.
- It entails simulating a power outage and allowing the emergency lighting to operate for its specified duration (often around 90 minutes).
- This test ensures that the system's batteries and components can sustain the required illumination level throughout the specified duration.
- Full-Duration Test
- The full-duration test is more comprehensive, typically performed every three years. But, this can still vary based on regulations and manufacturer recommendations.
- It involves activating the emergency lighting system and allowing it to operate for its entire rated duration (e.g., 90 minutes).
- The purpose is to assess the system's performance over an extended period thoroughly.
But apart from scheduled tests, performing a regular visual inspection is also a good practice. This allows you to ensure that your emergency lighting fixtures are clean, free from obstructions, and in proper condition.
Any issues identified during testing or inspections should be addressed promptly to maintain the functionality of the emergency lighting system.
Different test systems used for emergency lighting
Various test systems and methods are used to assess the functionality and performance of emergency lighting systems. Some of these systems are:
- Manual Test
Manual testing involves physically activating the emergency lighting system using a test key or switch. This method allows for on-the-spot verification of whether the lights turn on when the main power is disconnected.
- Automatic Standalone Test
Automatic standalone self-test refers to a self-contained system designed to independently and regularly test its functionality, particularly battery performance. The system displays the test results through an indicator on the fixture. This enables quick assessment by observers, sparing the need to turn off power or wait for an extended duration, ensuring the reliability of emergency lighting systems.
- Monitored System
In a monitored system, emergency lights are linked to a computer through wired or wireless connections. Emergency tests can be scheduled via software, with results shown on the computer.
However, physical inspection for the cleanliness and condition of each fitting, in line with standards, remains necessary. This system's complexity and cost are higher due to cabling and setup demands, making it less straightforward to implement than a standalone self-test approach.
The choice of test system depends on factors such as the scale of the installation, the complexity of the emergency lighting network, and the level of automation desired. Regardless of the system used, regular testing and maintenance are essential to ensure that emergency lighting systems are reliable and ready to function during critical situations.
Benefits of Installing Emergency Lights
Installing emergency lights offers a range of benefits, primarily centered around safety, compliance, and preparedness. Below are some key advantages of having emergency lights:
Enhanced Safety and Evacuation
Emergency lights provide a clear path to exits and escape routes, helping occupants navigate safely during power outages or emergencies. Moreover, illuminated pathways and exit signs help prevent panic and confusion among occupants, leading to smoother and more orderly evacuations.
Compliance with Regulations
Many building codes and regulations mandate the installation of emergency lighting in commercial and public spaces. Compliance with these codes is crucial to avoid legal issues and fines.
Improved Occupant Confidence
Knowing that emergency lighting is in place can reassure occupants that safety measures are taken seriously, promoting a sense of security within the building.
Effective Emergency Response
Emergency lights assist emergency responders by ensuring that critical areas are illuminated, allowing them to carry out their duties more effectively.
Reduced Liability
Properly functioning emergency lighting systems can reduce the liability of building owners or managers in case of accidents or injuries resulting from inadequate lighting during emergencies.
Preparedness for Unforeseen Events
Emergency lights ensure the building remains safe during unexpected events like earthquakes, fires, storms, or other natural disasters. Furthermore, they help maintain a safe environment during power failures caused by equipment malfunctions, grid issues, or other technical problems.
Improve Safety with Lightforce Incorporation
Safety is something that people should take seriously. Being prepared for any possible emergencies is crucial, and emergency lights play a vital role in this preparedness. However, preparedness extends beyond installing equipment, regular testing, maintenance, and training. Finding a reliable lighting supplier Philippines, like Lightforce Corporation, for your emergency lighting is equally important.
At Lightforce, we give our customers optimal lighting solutions tailored to various functions. We aspire to enhance our capacities and fulfill our customers' requisites through our lighting systems’ designs, excellence, and cost-effectiveness.
For more information, visit our website at https://lightforcecorp.com/.