Outdoor Commercial Lighting Considerations

For commercial lighting, it is best that a light engineer be hired for the job. It is necessary that all details in commercial lighting design be considered, as the proper types of lights, the proper locations of the fixtures, the right angle & direction of light, the suitable light control systems, and finally the best lighting technology to be employed.

The quality and appropriateness of a commercial lighting system should be well taken note of, and industry lighting standards and policies should be strictly followed. Non-compliance will prove to be a safety and security risk factor.

As you may see around, not all building structures follow the industry standards and safety guidelines in commercial lighting. A common example would be the inappropriate use of wallpack lights. This application does not maximize the light produced, and would mostly emit light sideways and upwards. This is just a waste of light, and worse, it is a distraction to nearby neighbors, or to passing motorists. A remedy to this would be the use of a wallbox light. It concentrates its light downwards without any glare that could be a nuisance to anyone passing through. These wallbox lights directly illuminate within the property line and not cross beyond it.

It is also best that a motion sensor-controlled light be incorporated on commercial lighting system. This is practical; it will save money as electrical consumption is put to a minimum. Like on entrance areas, it will only light if someone passes within the range of the motion sensor.

Again, a common mistake employed in building lighting is the use of spotlights fixed on a high place and directed at a 45-degree angle below. The light fails to illuminate the area directly below it and even crossed towards other adjacent buildings. This will also bother passersby or perhaps motorists on streets affected. Spotlights in commercial lighting should be directed downwards to improve visibility within the target area.

Also on company billboards and signs, it is best that light be projected from top to bottom. With an upward light, much of the light is wasted upwards. It is better to have light strike downwards and hit a portion of the ground area as this can provide some ambient light as well.

Planning for a commercial lighting system involves a light engineer. The light engineer’s experience and knowledge on industry standards will prove to be of benefit to your having a well planned, and well-implemented commercial lighting system.