The precise specifications of the site and the planned application of the lights will determine how many lumens are required for emergency lighting. Here are some basic recommendations for choosing the appropriate brightness for emergency lighting:
The International Building Code (IBC) stipulates that evacuation pathways must be illuminated with a minimum of 10 foot candles (110 lumens per square foot). This is to guarantee that, in the case of a power outage, people may safely exit a building.
General lighting: The IBC specifies a minimum of one foot candles (11 lumens per square foot) of illumination for general lighting in places like stairwells and corridors.
Task lighting: The IBC mandates a minimum of 5-footcandles (55 lumens per square foot) of illumination for task lighting in spaces like kitchens and restrooms.
It's vital to remember that these are the minimal specifications and that greater levels of illumination can be required based on the location's particular needs and the lighting's intended function. Additional criteria for emergency lights may also be mandated by local construction rules and regulations.
In order to choose the right amount of lumens for your emergency lighting requirements, it is advised that you speak with a lighting expert or electrician.
