Safety

[wireddd]

With all the hype about energy saving, I have had several customers ask about turning off the lighting in the stairwells. These are considered means of egress and I believe there are rules governing them being illuminated 24 hours a day.
Does anyone know exactly what rules applies to this?

 

[drbond24]

There is a minimum level of light required for egress routes required by NFPA 101, the Life Safety Code. I don't remember what it is, but my point is that they couldn't turn ALL the lights off, they'd have to leave a big of light in case someone needed to get out.

I'd also think it would be dangerous from a lawsuit perspective. If someone falls down the stairs and most of the lights are intentionally out....

 

[raider1]

From the 2009 IBC....

1006.1 Illumination required. The means of egress, including
the exit discharge, shall be illuminated at all times the building
space served by the means of egress is occupied.
Exceptions:
1. Occupancies in Group U.
2. Aisle accessways in Group A.
3. Dwelling units and sleeping units in Groups R-1, R-2
and R-3.
4. Sleeping units of Group I occupancies.
1006.2 Illumination level. The means of egress illumination
level shall not be less than 1 foot-candle (11 lux) at the walking
surface.

Chris