Article 700 -12(e) defines that the branch circuit used for an emergency battery pack should be from the same area circuit. We are having a problem with a local code inspector regarding our design. We were told to add battery packs to stairwells in schools. I powered the stairwell pack from existing exit sign/battery pack combo units on the opposite side of the stairwell corridor exit doors, since they were there and easy to access. I considered the area to be "corridor and stairs" He is considering the area to be the stairwell only. I'm just curious on any opinions or experiences along these lines. I don't feel I violated the code.
Emergency Lighting
- Thread starter richanton
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- Illinois
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- retired electrician
Re: Emergency Lighting
It must be supplied from the circuit that normally provides the light in the area that the EM unit is intented to light. In this case, the power for the EM unit must come from the circuit that feeds the stair lighting. This is to make sure that if the circuit that powers the stair lighting would fail for any reason, that the EM lights would come on. In your installation, the power to the stair lights could be off and the power on the other side of the door could be on. This would leave the stairs in darkness. I agree with the inspector.
Don
It must be supplied from the circuit that normally provides the light in the area that the EM unit is intented to light. In this case, the power for the EM unit must come from the circuit that feeds the stair lighting. This is to make sure that if the circuit that powers the stair lighting would fail for any reason, that the EM lights would come on. In your installation, the power to the stair lights could be off and the power on the other side of the door could be on. This would leave the stairs in darkness. I agree with the inspector.
Don
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