Emergency lighting: include existing safety functions in renovation
Distinguish normal lighting, escape signs and lighting needed during a failure.
General lighting supports everyday use. Emergency safety lighting serves a different purpose when normal lighting fails: people need to orient themselves, use escape routes and, where relevant, stop hazardous work safely. Escape signs support wayfinding but do not automatically provide the required route illumination.
The required system depends on use, risk assessment and applicable workplace and building rules. In German workplaces, current ASR A2.3 and A3.4 are relevant references. Universal spacing or operating-duration advice is inappropriate without assessing the project.
Identify existing safety functions before an LED renovation. Where combined luminaires, controls or power supplies are changed, confirm their continued suitability. Include testing, documentation, responsibilities and maintenance access in the design. Acceptance therefore involves more than checking the appearance of the installation with general lighting switched on.
What to clarify for your project
- Inventory escape signs and emergency luminaires.
- Review use and risk assessment with qualified planners.
- Define testing, records and maintenance responsibilities.
Remember: Identify safety functions before changing luminaires or controls.