How can you improve facility safety and security with lighting?

1 Assess lighting needs and risks

The first step to improve facility safety and security with lighting is to conduct a thorough assessment of the lighting needs and risks of the facility. This involves identifying the areas, tasks, and activities that require different levels of illumination, as well as the potential hazards, threats, and vulnerabilities that lighting can mitigate or exacerbate. For example, some areas may need bright and uniform lighting to ensure visibility and deter crime, while others may need dim and adjustable lighting to create a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere. Some lighting sources may pose fire, electrical, or tripping hazards, while others may attract unwanted attention or interfere with surveillance systems. A lighting assessment can help facilities engineers to prioritize and plan lighting solutions that suit the specific needs and risks of the facility.

2 Choose appropriate lighting types and technologies

The second step to improve facility safety and security with lighting is to choose the appropriate lighting types and technologies for the facility. There are various types of lighting, such as ambient, task, accent, emergency, and security lighting, that serve different purposes and functions. There are also various lighting technologies, such as incandescent, fluorescent, halogen, LED, and solar lighting, that have different characteristics and advantages. Facilities engineers need to select the lighting types and technologies that match the intended use, location, and design of the facility, as well as the energy efficiency, environmental impact, and maintenance requirements. For example, LED lighting can offer energy savings, long lifespan, and dimming capabilities, while solar lighting can provide renewable and reliable power for outdoor and remote areas.

3 Install and maintain lighting systems properly

The third step to improve facility safety and security with lighting is to install and maintain the lighting systems properly. This involves following the codes, standards, and regulations that govern the installation and operation of lighting systems, as well as the safety and security measures that prevent or reduce the risks of lighting-related accidents or incidents. For example, facilities engineers need to ensure that the wiring, fixtures, and controls of the lighting systems are installed correctly and securely, that the lighting systems are compatible with the electrical supply and the building structure, and that the lighting systems are protected from vandalism, theft, or damage. Facilities engineers also need to perform regular inspections, testing, cleaning, and repairs of the lighting systems, as well as replace or upgrade the lighting components as needed.

4 Optimize lighting performance and efficiency

The fourth step to improve facility safety and security with lighting is to optimize the performance and efficiency of the lighting systems. This involves using the lighting systems in a smart and sustainable way, as well as implementing measures that enhance the quality and quantity of the lighting output, while reducing the energy consumption and waste. For example, facilities engineers can use timers, sensors, dimmers, and switches to control the lighting levels and duration according to the occupancy, activity, and daylight availability. Facilities engineers can also use reflectors, diffusers, shades, and colors to improve the distribution and direction of the lighting, as well as reduce the glare and heat. Facilities engineers can also monitor and measure the lighting performance and efficiency, as well as collect and analyze the data to identify and address any issues or opportunities for improvement.

5 Educate and engage stakeholders

The fifth step to improve facility safety and security with lighting is to educate and engage the stakeholders of the facility, such as the owners, managers, employees, customers, and visitors. This involves informing and training them about the benefits, features, and functions of the lighting systems, as well as the policies, procedures, and practices that govern the use and maintenance of the lighting systems. For example, facilities engineers can provide manuals, guides, signs, and labels that explain how to operate and adjust the lighting systems, as well as how to report and respond to any lighting-related problems or emergencies. Facilities engineers can also solicit and incorporate the feedback, suggestions, and preferences of the stakeholders, as well as encourage and reward their participation and cooperation in improving facility safety and security with lighting.