As legislation for emergency and exit lighting in both national and local building 
codes continually change, finding innovative solutions that meet today’s complex demands can be challenging. Recent changes include increasing the required light output, adding a second set of “low level” exits, adding emergency lighting outdoors, and even including photoluminescent (glow-in-the-dark) markers in stairwells.
Given these changes, many of the products that were just introduced a few years ago will no longer pass the critical building inspection needed to grant an occupancy permit.
Some manufacturers such as Sure-Lites, the emergency and exit lighting brand within Cooper Lighting, has proactively addressed these issues by developing products that have been designed to meet and exceed the new requirements.
This past year, Sure-Lites introduced the Architectural Emergency Light, a product designed to not only look good, but also offer a performance edge when a specification calls for an emergency light with additional features. The fixture has a low- profile die-cast aluminum housing that is durable and suitable for both interior and exterior applications (UL listed for -4ºF to 104ºF). By design, the unit’s sconce shape offers flexibility, allowing it to be placed anywhere from a high-end retail space to the exterior of a warehouse. To exceed any new light output requirements, the emergency light includes three high-power Xenon lamps that deliver an impressive 30' center-to-center spacing based on 1 foot-candle average. In addition, standard product features include Watchguard™ self-diagnostics, a self-testing system, which meets national testing requirements (NFPA 101) and a FasTest ™ photocell, which enables remote testing of the emergency light from up to 30 feet. The Architectural Emergency Light offers a new aesthetic alternative for emergency lighting applications.
Another aesthetic and innovative product that Sure-Lites is adding to their product line is the StairLite 2. Currently scheduled to release this spring, this attractive fixture meets all stairwell lighting requirements and is designed to blend in with its surrounding environment while meeting the new emergency lighting codes. The product’s bi-level system utilizes T8 fluorescent lamps, with one lamp being controlled by an ultrasonic motion sensor that conserves energy while providing safe and dependable illumination when needed. Standard features include field adjustable motion sensitivity and time delay. In addition, a code approved (NFPA 101) battery backup is provided for continued visibility in the event of a power outage. The StairLite 2 is setting a new standard for stairwell lighting.
For additional information on Sure-Lites products, visit the company website at www.surelites-lighting.com. Sure-Lites is a brand of Cooper Lighting.
About the Author:
Paul Brodowski is a marketing manager for the Sure-Lites product line at Cooper Lighting. He can be reached at Pbrodowski@cooperlighting.com.
