Emergency lighting is essential for building safety, especially in emergency situations like power outages or evacuations. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets guidelines for emergency lighting under NFPA 101, commonly known as the Life Safety Code. This code outlines specific requirements based on building occupancy type, ensuring occupants have a safe path for egress in emergency situations.
Below, we summarize emergency lighting requirements based on different occupancy types, referencing NFPA 101, 2012 edition.
Occupancy-Specific Emergency Lighting Requirements
The table below lists emergency lighting requirements across various occupancy types for new buildings, based on NFPA 101 (2012). Each type’s specific conditions are also mentioned, helping clarify where lighting is mandatory or where certain exceptions apply.
| OCCUPANCY TYPE (new building) | CODE REF. | EMERGENCY LIGHTING |
|---|---|---|
| AMBULATORY (Sprinklered and Not Sprinklered) | NFPA 101, 2012 (20.2.9.1 and 7.9) | Emergency lighting is required. |
| BUSINESS (Sprinklered and Not Sprinklered) | NFPA 101, 2012 (38.2.9.1 and 7.9) | Emergency lighting is required if one of the following conditions is met: a) The building is 2 stories above the level of exit discharge. b) The occupancy is subject to 50 occupants above or below the level of exit discharge. c) The total occupant load is subject to 300 occupants. |
| HEALTHCARE | NFPA 101, 2012 (18.2.9 and 7.9) | Emergency lighting is required. Additional requirements may apply if the building is equipped with a life support system (refer to NFPA 99). |
| EDUCATIONAL | NFPA 101, 2012 (14.2.9 and 7.9) | Emergency lighting is required. |
| ONE & TWO FAMILY DWELLINGS | (-) | There is no requirement for emergency lighting. |
| HOTELS AND DORMITORIES | NFPA 101, 2012 (28.2.9 and 7.9) | Emergency lighting is required, except if guest rooms have an exit directly to the outside. |
| APARTMENTS | NFPA 101, 2012 (30.2.9 and 7.9) | Emergency lighting is required when the building has more than 12 dwelling units or is more than 3 stories in height. |
| MERCANTILE | NFPA 101, 2012 (36.2.9 and 7.9) | Emergency lighting is required for Class A and Class B mercantile occupancy and mall buildings. |
| STORAGE | NFPA 101, 2012 (42.2.9 and 7.9) | Emergency lighting is required, except for spaces occupied only during daylight hours with natural illumination. |
| INDUSTRIAL | NFPA 101, 2012 (40.2.9) | Emergency lighting is required. Refer to section 40.2.9 for exceptions. |
Importance of Emergency Lighting Compliance
Compliance with NFPA 101 ensures that buildings are equipped to provide adequate lighting in emergencies, significantly reducing the risk of injuries during evacuations. Emergency lighting requirements vary widely based on the building’s occupancy, size, and layout, which is why understanding these details is crucial for architects, builders, and building owners.
Selecting Emergency Lighting
When choosing emergency lighting, it’s essential to consider:
- Battery Backup: Look for units with battery backup to ensure they stay on even when the main power supply is cut off.
- Duration: The lights should remain operational for a minimum period as specified in NFPA 101, typically 90 minutes.
- Regular Testing: Periodic testing and maintenance are required to ensure that all emergency lights function properly in case of an emergency.
Additional Resources and Assistance
For more information, consult the NFPA’s official guidelines or contact a certified fire protection specialist. Understanding and implementing these guidelines can greatly enhance building safety for occupants in all emergency situations.
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