How can you document and track lighting and controls for future reference?

1 Identify and label your lighting and controls

The first step to document and track your lighting and controls is to identify and label them clearly and consistently. This will help you locate, operate, and maintain them more easily and avoid confusion or errors. You can use different methods to label your lighting and controls, such as color-coding, numbering, or naming. You can also use symbols, diagrams, or QR codes to provide more information or link to online resources. Make sure to update your labels whenever you make any changes or additions to your lighting and controls.

2 Create and maintain a lighting and controls inventory

The second step to document and track your lighting and controls is to create and maintain a comprehensive inventory of them. This will help you monitor their status, usage, and performance, as well as plan for replacements, repairs, or upgrades. You can use a spreadsheet, a database, or a software application to record your lighting and controls inventory. Some of the information you should include are: location, type, model, serial number, wattage, voltage, dimming, occupancy sensor, daylight sensor, control system, schedule, warranty, and maintenance history.

3 Use a lighting and controls management system

The third step to document and track your lighting and controls is to use a lighting and controls management system (LCMS). This is a software application that allows you to remotely control, monitor, and optimize your lighting and controls from a central dashboard. An LCMS can help you save energy, improve comfort, enhance security, and comply with regulations. An LCMS can also provide you with reports, alerts, and analytics on your lighting and controls performance, as well as suggestions for improvements or adjustments.

4 Implement a lighting and controls audit

The fourth step to document and track your lighting and controls is to implement a lighting and controls audit. This is a process of inspecting, measuring, and evaluating your lighting and controls systems to identify any issues, inefficiencies, or opportunities for improvement. A lighting and controls audit can help you assess your current lighting and controls conditions, compare them with your goals and standards, and recommend solutions or actions to achieve them. You can conduct a lighting and controls audit yourself or hire a professional auditor.

5 Document and update your lighting and controls policies and procedures

The fifth step to document and track your lighting and controls is to document and update your lighting and controls policies and procedures. These are the rules, guidelines, and best practices that govern how you operate, maintain, and improve your lighting and controls systems. They can help you ensure consistency, quality, and compliance across your facility. You should document your lighting and controls policies and procedures in a clear and accessible format, such as a manual, a handbook, or a website. You should also update them regularly to reflect any changes or updates to your lighting and controls systems or standards.

6 Train and educate your staff and occupants on lighting and controls

The sixth and final step to document and track your lighting and controls is to train and educate your staff and occupants on lighting and controls. This will help you increase awareness, engagement, and satisfaction with your lighting and controls systems, as well as prevent misuse, abuse, or damage. You can use various methods to train and educate your staff and occupants on lighting and controls, such as workshops, seminars, webinars, videos, posters, flyers, or newsletters. You should also provide feedback, recognition, and incentives to encourage good lighting and controls practices and behaviors.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?