When it comes to commercial lighting, following the right codes and regulations isn’t just about staying legal – it’s about ensuring safety, efficiency, and long-term savings for your business. Proper lighting impacts everything from employee productivity to customer safety, and non-compliance can lead to fines, safety hazards, or costly upgrades down the line. Here’s what business owners need to know about lighting code compliance and why it matters.

 

Why Lighting Code Compliance Matters

Adhering to local, state, and federal lighting regulations ensures that your property is not only safe but also meets legal standards. Lighting code compliance is vital for reducing the risk of accidents, improving energy efficiency, and maintaining accessibility for all customers. It also shields businesses from potential legal liabilities in the case of inspections or accidents.

 

Key Lighting Regulations for Commercial Properties

OSHA Standards: Requires sufficient lighting in work areas, emergency exits, and hazardous zones to reduce injury risks and ensure safety.

ADA Compliance: Mandates accessible lighting for all individuals, including those with visual impairments. Public spaces must be well-lit, free from excessive glare or shadows.

Light Pollution Ordinances: Why It Matters: Cities like Asheville, NC, and Charleston, SC have strict light pollution ordinances. Businesses must ensure proper light direction, intensity control, and the use of dark sky-compliant fixtures to avoid penalties

 

Energy Code Compliance: IECC & ASHRAE Standards

Energy Codes: Many states follow the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and ASHRAE 90.1, which set standards for energy efficiency in commercial buildings.

What They Cover: These codes regulate bulb types and the use of automated lighting controls like timers and motion sensors to reduce energy use.

Why It Matters: Compliance lowers utility bills and minimizes environmental impact by improving energy efficiency.

 

Emergency Lighting & Exit Signage Requirements

Required Systems: Commercial buildings must have emergency lighting and illuminated exit signs to ensure safe evacuation during power outages.

90-Minute Rule: Emergency lights must stay on for at least 90 minutes.

Regular Testing: Systems need regular testing to remain functional and compliant, avoiding safety risks and potential fines.

How Southern Lighting Services Ensures Code Compliance

Navigating lighting regulations can be complex, but Southern Lighting Services is here to help. We provide expert advice and tailored solutions to ensure your lighting systems meet all the necessary local and federal codes. Whether you’re retrofitting to meet IECC standards, installing dark sky-compliant fixtures, or upgrading your emergency lighting, we ensure everything is code-compliant and optimized for safety and efficiency.

Get in touch with us to make sure your lighting system is fully compliant and ready to serve your business’s needs across North and South Carolina.

 

Contact Us:

Main Office:
4133 US Hwy 321A
Granite Falls, NC 28630

Eastern NC Office :
8760 Trade St. NE
Leland, NC 28451

South Carolina Office :
2423 Highway 17 South
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582

 

Family owned and operated for over 25 years.

Licensed in the North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Tennessee & Georgia

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