Energy code and Operating Rooms

[mshields]

Realizing that the exam lighting in OR's is logically exempt from any energy code restrictions, is the rest of the lighting in the room subject to the energy code. Let's assume we're going by the the IECC, 2012.

Thanks,

Mike

 

[steve66]

I believe it falls under the exception for medical task lighting as long as its switched separately from the general room lighting.

I generally double switch the OR lights (I don't want them all on the same ATS anyway), and call it good.

Technically, I suppose for a double switched room, half the lights should count as general lighting, and that half should be included in the energy code calcs.

 

[JoeStillman]

On a philosophical note, I think the energy code should have no business being applied in operating rooms. Imagine some kid's surgery going bust because of bad lighting. Should we tell the family "Well at least we saved some greenhouse gasses."

/rant off.