Lighting Services Blog

The emergency lighting ballast, also referred to as the fluorescent power pack or emergency power pack, allows the same lighting fixture to be used in both the normal and emergency operations.   In the event of a power failure, the EMB switches to the emergency mode and operates one or two of the existing lamps in the fixture for the emergency lighting fire code required ninety minutes.  These units are UL listed, have both 120/227 voltage capability, an indicator light, and test switch.  The units contain a battery, charger, and a inverter circuit in a single package.  They can be ordered in new fixtures or they can be used to retrofit older fixtures and they are able to be utilized in many different types of fixtures (flush mount fluorescent, recessed cans, etc.). The only negative factor is that the EMB is a sealed unit and when the battery fails (approx. 4-5 years later) the entire unite must be replaced.

You've heard about "emergency lighting," but what do you REALLY need to know?

1. Emergency lighting is required by the NFPA Fire Code whether your facility is located in Connecticut or any other state.
2. Emergency lighting is sometimes called emergency "egress" lighting and is required to be present and operable within your facility.
3. The NFPA requirements call for a monthly 30-second tests to be sure that the battery keeps the lamps lit brightly to ensure safe egress in the event of a power outage or other emergency. By just pushing the test button for a few seconds you are not testing the strength of the battery back-up power.
4. The NFPA requirements call for an annual 90 minute full-load-test to insure all of your emergency lighting systems will opperate for a full 1.5 hours in the event of an extended emergency.
5. Emergency lighting can be provided within overhead lighting fixtures (such as a flourscent power packs or floursecent emergency packs), individual wall-mounted units (as part of an exit sign, or separate "two-headed" units), or as part of a central emergency lighting system (32v DC system, inverter, or generator).
6. The different types of emergency lighting require different steps by which to follow to complete the testing properly.
7. Regardless of the type of emergency lighting your facility has, it must be inspected regularly to meet fire code requirements and insure you are prepared for a life-safety emergency.