The Complete Guide to Lighting Codes and Standards
Building codes are rules for buildings and other structures that are written into law by state and municipal governments. The primary goal of these rules and standards is to safeguard the public's welfare in terms of building and structure construction and occupant safety, health, and general welfare. It's critical to realize that these laws are drafted at the state (and occasionally local) levels. There is no national code in the United States.
Many facets of building construction and upkeep are covered by these codes. These include electrical, plumbing, and energy use as well as occupant and structural safety. Standards and guidelines for lighting systems in buildings relate to both energy usage and public safety.
Codes are established based on suggestions made by knowledgeable subject-matter experts. The American National Standards Association (ANSI) has a list of these authorities.
The building departments of state and local municipalities are then responsible for administering and enforcing these codes. The owner or contractor is responsible for the proper application of a code document once it has been enacted into law.
The codes are often revised to reflect new field knowledge and advancements in the technical aspects of lighting systems.
The purpose of building energy codes is to regulate the planned energy efficiency of nonresidential buildings. To ensure that general lighting is switched off or reduced when it is not needed, current rules and standards call for a variety of lighting controls.
Commercial building codes such as fire, electrical, structural, and plumbing also contain energy codes. They differ from codes for machinery or appliances. They are associated with the structure itself. There is, however, occasionally overlap with lighting.
The following are the most typical codes that state and local governments adopt:
IES/ASHRAE 90.1
Buildings must comply with the ASHRAE/IES 90.1, Energy Standard for Buildings, a uniform energy code that can be implemented wholly or in part by different jurisdictions. Updates are made every three years. The ASHRAE/IES 90.1-2019 edition is the most recent.
As the official national energy reference standard, ASHRAE/IES 90.1 was established by the US Department of Energy. It mandates the adoption of a minimum equally rigorous code by all states.
The IECC is a global standard for energy conservation.
The IECC is a typical energy code for residential and commercial buildings. The International Codes Council (ICC) is responsible for its creation and revision. It receives revisions every three years, just like the ASHRAE/IES 90.1. The ICC IECC 2021 is the most recent version.
As a different model, ASHRAE/IES 90.1 is mentioned in the IECC. This gives building designers more options.
Lighting specifications imposed by IECC and ASHRAE
Strict and obligatory requirements are set forth in IECC 2021 and ASHRAE/IES 90.1-2019 for lighting systems. It is vital to have a variety of lighting controls. These controls must undergo functional testing and be recorded. The intended power shouldn't exceed the minimum and maximum limits. The owner must receive any necessary documentation for the lighting and control system.
Each code specifies illumination specifications. They are described as the total illumination power allowed as well as any regulations pertaining to lighting controls and operation. The majority of governments require that an architectural project comply with IECC or ASHRAE 90.1.
Automatic Lighting Control and Dimming for Interior Lights
For the majority of interior lighting, all codes call for some sort of automatic shut-off. Utilizing occupancy sensors or timer controls, this is accomplished. All interior lighting must have manual controls available to building occupants, per ASHRAE 90.1. All codes require a "partial-on" function for the majority of spaces. This setting restricts the first stage's lighting power to no more than 50% of the connected lighting power. Light-reduction controls must give at least one control choice that considerably reduces the lighting power in order to comply with all requirements.
Controls for lighting power-reduction can be made using the following methods:
Dimming all of the lights
Selective control of a portion of the bulbs in each luminaire. Completely turning off some luminaires.
When lighting power controls are in use, the lighting must be pretty uniform according to the codes. It is simple to maintain consistency by dimming all of the fixtures at once. Since they may be dimmed, LED lights are a good option for lighting power controls.
Automatic Controls That Respond to Daylight
In areas where daylighting is possible, all regulations need automatic daylight-responsive controls. This might come from spaces with windows or skylights. ASHRAE 90.1 mandates a minimum of four lighting levels:
Almost full power
Two-thirds
One-third
Off
automatic exterior light shut-off
During daylight hours, exterior lights must be turned off using photocells or automated timers. Ornamental hardscape and façade lights must be automatically switched off at specific hours under ASHRAE 90.1 and IECC regulations. This often holds true for controls over dusk and dawn as well as opening and closing hours. Any residual exterior lighting must be managed so that, in reaction to motion sensors, the total illumination output is decreased. IECC and ASHRAE 90.1 both call for a 30% cut.
Conclusion
Energy rules for commercial buildings encourage the implementation of a reliable control system. Particularly in the case of lights and controls. The most prevalent belief is that lights should be reduced or turned off when not needed. This technology can be used to get a larger interior lighting power allowance or as a more efficient choice. Occupancy sensors are needed in a variety of settings. It is necessary to have separate controls for daylight regions. This can occasionally involve ancillary regions.
Last but not least, it's critical to comprehend that these laws and standards are constantly being changed. Always make sure you are knowledgeable about the most recent advancements and are able to offer the necessary testing and documentation details as required.
