AS NZS 2293 1 1998 emergency evacuation lighting for buildin

Title

AS/NZS 2293.1:1998 Emergency evacuation lighting for buildings - System design,
installation and operation

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AS/NZS 2293.1:1998

Emergency evacuation lighting for
buildings
Building Code of Australia
primary referenced Standard

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Australian/New Zealand Standard™

Part 1: System design, installation
and operation

AS/NZS 2293.1:1998
This Joint Australian/New Zealand Standard was prepared by Joint Technical
Committee LG/7, Emergency Lighting in Buildings. It was approved on behalf of
the Council of Standards Australia on 25 February 1998 and on behalf of the
Council of Standards New Zealand on 27 February 1998. It was published on
5 May 1998.

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The following interests are represented on Committee LG/1:
The Association of Consulting Engineers Australia
Australian Building Codes Board
Australian Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers Association
Australian Institute of Building Surveyors
Building Control Commission, Victoria
Building Industry Authority, New Zealand
Department of Public Works and Housing, Queensland
Department of Public Works and Services, New South Wales
Illuminating Engineering Society of Australia and New Zealand
National Electrical Contractors Association of Australia
New South Wales Fire Brigades
New Zealand Electrical Regulatory Authorities
New Zealand Manufacturers Federation
Property Council of Australia
WorkCover New South Wales
WORKS Australia

Review of Standards. To keep abreast of progress in industry, Joint Australian/

New Zealand Standards are subject to periodic review and are kept up to date by the
issue of amendments or new editions as necessary. It is important therefore that
Standards users ensure that they are in possession of the latest edition, and any
amendments thereto.
Full details of all Joint Standards and related publications will be found in the Standards
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supplemented each month by the magazines ‘The Australian Standard’ and ‘Standards
New Zealand’, which subscribing members receive, and which give details of new
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Suggestions for improvements to Joint Standards, addressed to the head office of either
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inaccuracy or ambiguity found in a Joint Australian/New Zealand Standard should be
made without delay in order that the matter may be investigated and appropriate action
taken.

This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR 97362.


AS/NZS 2293.1:1998

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Australian/New Zealand Standard™
Emergency evacuation lighting for
buildings
Part 1: System design, installation
and operation

Originated in Australia as part of AS 2293.1 — 1979.
Final Australian edition AS 2293.1 — 1987.

Originated in New Zealand as part of NZS 6742:1971.
AS 2293.1 — 1987 and NZS 6742:1971 jointly revised,
in part, and designated AS/NZS 2293.1:1995.
Second edition 1998.

Published jointly by:
Standards Australia
1 The Crescent,
Homebush NSW 2140 Australia
Standards New Zealand
Level 10, Radio New Zealand House,
155 The Terrace,
Wellington 6001 New Zealand
ISBN 0 7337 1920 1


AS/NZS 2293.1:1998

2

PREFACE
This Standard was prepared by the Joint Standards Australia/Standards New Zealand
Committee LG/7, Emergency Lighting in Buildings, to supersede AS/NZS 2293.1:1995
Emergency lighting for buildings, Part 1: System design, installation and operation.
The Standard sets out requirements for the design, installation and operation of emergency
evacuation lighting systems for buildings. The objective of these requirements is to ensure
the provision of visual conditions that will alleviate panic and facilitate safe evacuation of
the building occupants should this be necessary in the event of failure of the normal
lighting.
The objective of this edition is to introduce a number of necessary changes, particularly

those sought by the Australian Building Codes Board, with a view to the Standard being
in a form that is suitable for reference in the Building Code of Australia.

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Attention is drawn to the need for emergency evacuation lighting systems to be regularly
maintained. In this regard it should be noted that AS/NZS 2293.2* specifies the periodic
inspection and maintenance checks that should be carried out to ensure that emergency
evacuation lighting systems will continue to function effectively.
For direct lighting systems, two alternative methods are specified for deriving the required
spacings for emergency luminaires, viz.
(a)

A set of rules involving the classification of emergency luminaires according to
their light output distribution (see AS/NZS 2293.3*) coupled with requirements
relating the luminaire mounting height and maximum spacing (see Clauses 5.3.2.2
and 5.3.2.3, and Tables 5.1 to 5.5).

(b)

Calculations of the illuminance at floor level conducted in a specified manner
(see Clause 5.3.2.4).

There are differences in the way in which the methods described in Items (a) and (b) are
specified for separate application in Australia and New Zealand, as explained below.
For Australian purposes, the spacing rules continue to be based on illuminance
calculations in which only the luminous flux that reaches the floor directly from the
emergency luminaires is taken into account.
For New Zealand purposes, similar spacing rules apply to those for use in Australia
except that a separate luminaire classification is calculated for each room or space that is

to be provided with emergency lighting. For illuminance calculations, the luminous flux
that reaches the floor both directly and indirectly (by reflection from room surfaces) is
taken into account.
The above differences arise in part from different regulatory positions in Australia and
New Zealand. In particular, the different requirements arise from the following:
(i)

In New Zealand The underlying basis for the requirements is the provision of an
illuminance of not less than 1 lx at any point, as required by the New Zealand
Building Code. Both the direct and inter-reflected luminous flux components are
taken into account.

(ii)

In Australia The underlying basis for the requirements is the provision of an
illuminance not less than 0.2 lx at the mid-point between adjacent luminaires. Only
the direct component of luminous flux is taken into account.

* AS/NZS
2293

Emergency evacuation lighting for buildings

2293.2

Part 2: Inspection and maintenance

2293.3

Part 3: Emergency luminaires and exit signs

3

AS/NZS 2293.1:1998

The differences between the New Zealand and Australian positions are, in practice, not as
large as they appear. For a number of practical reasons, emergency lighting systems
designed in accordance with the Australian spacing rules (i.e. Tables 5.1 to 5.5) have, by
measurement, been observed to provide illuminances comparable to those required by the
New Zealand Building Code.
Differences also exist with respect to the installation of exit signs. For Australia, the
requirements of Clause 5.6 are similar to those of AS 2293.1 — 1987 but with some
changes. For New Zealand, Clause 5.7 requires compliance with Approved Document F8
of the New Zealand Building Code.
The abovementioned differences will be given further attention in a future revision of the
Standard, having regard to any developments with respect to international
recommendations covering this subject.

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The terms ‘normative’ and ‘informative’ have been used in this Standard to define the
application of the appendix to which they apply. A ‘normative’ appendix is an integral
part of a Standard, whereas an ‘informative’ appendix is only for information and
guidance.

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AS/NZS 2293.1:1998

4

CONTENTS
Page
FOREWORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL
1.1 SCOPE AND APPLICATION . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS . . . . . . . . . . .
1.3 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.4 COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER STANDARDS
1.5 NEW DESIGNS AND INNOVATIONS . . . . .
1.6 ALTERATIONS AND ADDITIONS . . . . . . .

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SECTION 2 SYSTEM PERFORMANCE, ARRANGEMENT AND CONTROL
2.1 SCOPE OF SECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.2 OPERATION OF EMERGENCY LUMINAIRES AND EXIT SIGNS
2.3 DURATION OF OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2.4 ARRANGEMENT AND CONTROL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.5 LABELLING OF DEVICES CONTROLLING THE OPERATION OF
EMERGENCY LIGHTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.6 COMMISSIONING TEST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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SECTION 3 EMERGENCY POWER SUPPLIES FOR CENTRAL
3.1 SCOPE OF SECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2 EMERGENCY POWER SOURCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.3 BATTERIES AND THEIR INSTALLATION . . . . . . . .
3.4 BATTERY CHARGER ASSEMBLY . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.5 INVERTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.6 ALARM SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SYSTEMS
.........
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SECTION 4 PROVISION OF DISCHARGE TEST FACILITIES
4.1 SCOPE OF SECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.2 REQUIRED FACILITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.3 MANUAL TESTING FACILITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.4 AUTOMATIC TESTING FACILITIES . . . . . . . . . . . .

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SECTION 5 INSTALLATION OF EMERGENCY LUMINAIRES AND EXIT SIGNS
5.1 SCOPE OF SECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.2 PROVISION OF EMERGENCY LUMINAIRES AND EXIT SIGNS . . . . . .
5.3 INSTALLATIONS EMPLOYING DIRECT LIGHTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.4 INSTALLATIONS EMPLOYING INDIRECT LIGHTING . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.5 LIGHTING OF STAIRWAYS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5.6 INSTALLATION OF EXIT SIGNS (IN AUSTRALIA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.7 INSTALLATION OF EXIT SIGNS (IN NEW ZEALAND) . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.8 IDENTIFICATION OF EMERGENCY LUMINAIRES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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27
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35
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5

AS/NZS 2293.1:1998

Page
SECTION 6 INSTALLATION OF ELECTRICAL WIRING AND EQUIPMENT
FOR CENTRAL SYSTEMS
6.1 SCOPE OF SECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.2 CIRCUIT VOLTAGE DROP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.3 PROTECTION AGAINST OVERCURRENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.4 PROTECTION OF THE ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION
AGAINST FIRE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.5 SEGREGATION OR IDENTIFICATION OF SUBMAINS . . . . . . . . .
6.6 ARRANGEMENT OF FINAL SUBCIRCUITS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . 36
. . . . 36
. . . . 36
. . . . 36
. . . . 39
. . . . 39

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SECTION 7 INFORMATION REQUIRED FOR MAINTAINING THE SYSTEM
7.1 SCOPE OF SECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
7.2 OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
7.3 PROVISION FOR THE RECORDING OF MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . 42
APPENDICES
A REFERENCED DOCUMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
B TERMINAL BOX FOR THE CONNECTION OF EMERGENCY

LUMINAIRES AND EXIT SIGNS IN CENTRAL SYSTEMS . . .
C DIAGRAMS ILLUSTRATING CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS OR
CHARACTERISTICS OF EMERGENCY LIGHTING SYSTEMS .
D FORMS OF CONSTRUCTION DEEMED TO PROVIDE A
FIRE-RESISTANCE LEVEL OF 15/15/15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . 43
. . . . . . . . 45
. . . . . . . . 51
. . . . . . . . 56


AS/NZS 2293.1:1998

6

FOREWORD
The term ‘emergency lighting’ is commonly used to refer to the following types of
lighting systems, one or more of which may be provided in a building to guard against the
possible loss of the normal lighting:
(a)

Standby lighting Standby lighting systems generally provide relatively high
lighting levels, which will permit normal activities to continue.

(b)

Safety lighting Safety lighting systems are intended to ensure the safety of workers
in proximity to hazardous equipment or processes.

(c)

Evacuation or escape lighting Evacuation or escape lighting systems are intended
to provide visual conditions that will permit the safe evacuation of people from
buildings.

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This Standard is concerned only with emergency evacuation or escape lighting. The
emergency lighting required by this Standard may be provided either by central systems *
or single-point systems *, or by a combination of the two. Both systems have particular
advantages and disadvantages; consequently, no recommendation is made as to which
should be employed.
Attention is drawn to the fact that the reflectance of the main interior surfaces (especially
walls and other vertical surfaces) will significantly influence the visual conditions
provided by an emergency lighting installation. It is therefore recommended that the
colour of these surfaces be as light in tone as practicable.
It is recognized that the presence of smoke will have a detrimental effect on the visual
conditions provided by emergency lighting. The Committee is of the view that there is no
practical way of ensuring that the lighting system will continue to be effective under
smoke conditions, and that dependence must be placed on other measures such as building
construction and ventilation to keep escape paths as free as possible from smoke.
There are developing techniques (e.g. wayfinding systems) that, when applied to escape
routes in addition to conventional emergency evacuation lighting, can enhance the visual
guidance afforded during an emergency involving loss of the normal lighting. These
techniques are not covered in this Standard.
The nature of an emergency lighting system is such that one can never predict when it
may be called upon to function. Consequently, although it is important that the system is
correctly installed and initially operates satisfactorily, it is equally important that regular
inspection and maintenance procedures are instituted to ensure that the system will be in a

state of readiness for operation at all times. The necessary procedures are set out in
AS/NZS 2293.2, Emergency evacuation lighting for buildings , Part 2: Inspection and
maintenance.

* See relevant definitions in Clause 1.3.


7

AS/NZS 2293.1:1998

STANDARDS AUSTRALIA / STANDARDS NEW ZEALAND
Australian / New Zealand Standard
Emergency evacuation lighting for buildings
Part 1: System design, installation and operation

S E C T I O N
1.1

1

S C O P E

A N D

G E N E R A L

SCOPE AND APPLICATION

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1.1.1 Scope This Standard specifies requirements for the equipment used and practices
adopted in the provision of electric emergency evacuation lighting for buildings.
Requirements for emergency luminaires and exit signs are specified by reference to
AS/NZS 2293.3. The objective of the Standard is to provide visual conditions which will
alleviate panic and permit safe evacuation of the building occupants, should this be
necessary, in the event of failure of the electrical supply to the normal lighting.
The Standard does not specify the types of buildings or the particular areas of buildings
which should be provided with emergency evacuation lighting. This will normally be a
matter for determination in accordance with the relevant building regulations. (See the
Building Code of Australia or the New Zealand Building Code, as applicable.)
There are some differences in the requirements specified for application in Australia and
those for application in New Zealand. Such differences are identified at the appropriate
place by a qualification such as ‘In Australia’ or ‘In New Zealand’, as applicable.
NOTES:
1

As it is never known when the emergency evacuation lighting may be called upon, it is
essential that the system be regularly maintained. AS/NZS 2293.2 sets out inspection and
maintenance procedures which are intended to ensure that the installation will continue to
comply with this Standard.

2

In Australia, requirements for the provision of emergency lighting in lift cars are given in
AS 1735. In New Zealand, the comparable requirements are given in Approved
Document D2 of the New Zealand Building Code.

3

AS 3009 specifies requirements for the emergency standby lighting necessary in hospitals
for continued patient care and requires that emergency evacuation lighting be provided in
accordance with the requirements of this Standard and relevant building regulations.

1.1.2 Application This Standard will be referenced in the Building Code of Australia
by way of BCA Amendment 3 to be published by 1 July 1998, thereby superseding the
previous referenced edition, AS 2293.1 — 1987.
This Standard may be called up by the Building Industry Authority in the Fire Safety
sections of the Approved Documents which are expected to be re-published in 1999,
thereby replacing AS/NZS 2293.1:1995 which is currently referenced by the New Zealand
Building Code Handbook, Approved Document F6 as an Acceptable Solution to the
New Zealand Building Code.
1.2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS
Standard is given in Appendix A.

A list of the documents referred to in this

COPYRIGHT


AS/NZS 2293.1:1998

8

1.3 DEFINITIONS For the purpose of this Standard, the definitions given in the
Building Code of Australia or the New Zealand Building Code, as appropriate, and those
below apply.
NOTE: Definitions of lighting quantities are of the simplified form given in AS 3665, to convey
a basic understanding of the concepts involved. For the more precise primary definitions of
these terms reference should be made to AS 1852.845.

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1.3.1 Ambient temperature—the dry-bulb temperature in still air, averaged over a
period of 8 h.
1.3.2 Approved—approved by the regulatory authority.
1.3.3 Battery—a unit consisting of one or more cells connected in a series, parallel or
series-parallel arrangement to supply the voltage and current requirements of a connected
load.
1.3.4 Boost charge—a system of charging adopted to recover the battery in accordance
with the duty requirements of the system, the voltage of the system under these
circumstances being outside the normal permissible limits of the system.
1.3.5 Cell—the basic single unit consisting of case, electrolyte, positive and negative
plates, and connecting terminals, used for storing electric energy by electrolytic processes.
1.3.6 Central (emergency lighting) system—a system of emergency lighting in which a
number of emergency luminaires and exit signs are supplied from a common power
source.
NOTE: Within a building there may be several power sources each of which supplies the
emergency luminaires and exit signs in a particular section of the building.

1.3.7 Combined emergency luminaire (combined exit sign)—a maintained or
non-maintained emergency luminaire (exit sign) which incorporates an additional lamp
energized from the normal lighting supply.
NOTE: The term ‘sustained emergency luminaire’ (‘sustained exit sign’) is sometimes used to
describe one form of combined emergency luminaire (combined exit sign) in which the
emergency lamps operate in a non-maintained mode (see Clauses 1.3.29 and 1.3.38).

1.3.8 Designated area—a specific area within a building that is required to be provided
with emergency evacuation lighting.
NOTE: These areas should be determined by reference to the Building Code of Australia or the

New Zealand Building Code, as applicable.

1.3.9 Direct lighting—a system of lighting in which most of the light emitted by the
luminaires is directed towards the surfaces to be lit. The term usually refers to light
emitted in a downward direction.
NOTE: A surface is directly lit if there is an unobstructed line from any point on the surface to
the light emitting or reflecting parts of an adjacent emergency luminaire.

1.3.10 Electrolyte density—the density of the electrolyte measure in kilograms per
cubic metre at a specific temperature (the density of pure water = 1000 kg/m 3 at 4°C).
NOTE: The density of an electrolyte was formerly indicated by its specific gravity. Specific
gravity is the ratio of the density of the electrolyte to the density of pure water, i.e.

S.G.

electrolyte density (in kilograms per cubic metre)
1000

1.3.11 Emergency evacuation lighting (emergency lighting)—lighting which is
provided to ensure that the means of escape can be safely and effectively used.
Emergency evacuation lighting systems comprise both emergency luminaires and exit
signs.
NOTES:
1 Throughout this Standard ‘emergency evacuation lighting’ is referred to as ‘emergency
lighting’.
2 The emergency lighting may be derived from central systems, single-point systems
(see Clauses 1.3.6 and 1.3.36), or a combination of both.
COPYRIGHT

9

AS/NZS 2293.1:1998

1.3.12 Emergency luminaire—a luminaire which is designed for use in an emergency
lighting system.
NOTES:
1 Emergency luminaires are required to be classified in accordance with AS/NZS 2293.3. A
bare lamp unit may serve as an emergency luminaire provided that it has been appropriately
classified. An internally illuminated exit sign may also serve as an emergency luminaire
provided that it has been classified for this purpose in accordance with AS/NZS 2293.3.
2 An emergency luminaire may be integral with a normal lighting luminaire or may be a
completely separate unit.

1.3.13 Exit—an exit which is required by building regulations.
1.3.14 Final subcircuit—as defined in AS 3000 or, in New Zealand, The Electricity
Regulations except that, in central systems, wiring originating from the distribution board
to the fused terminal box and wiring between the fused terminal box and the emergency
luminaire or exit sign is deemed to be part of the one final subcircuit.

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NOTE: See Clause 6.4.2.2(b) and Appendix B for details of the fused terminal box and its
installation.

1.3.15 Float charge — the permanent connection of a battery to a voltage-regulated d.c.
system so that the battery is maintained fully charged and able to supply power to the
system if the normal charging source fails.
1.3.16 Illuminance—the luminous flux arriving at a surface divided by the area of the
illuminated surface.

1.3.17 Illumination—a general expression for the quantity of light arriving at a surface.
The physical measure of illumination is illuminance.
1.3.18 Indirect lighting—a system in which most of the light is provided by reflection
from ceilings, walls or other surfaces.
1.3.19 Light loss factor (LLF) — the ratio of the illuminance produced by a lighting
system at a specified time to the illuminance produced by the same system when new.
NOTE: The LLF combines the losses caused by lamp lumen depreciation, luminaire depreciation
and room surface depreciation. See AS 1680.1 or NZS 6703 for further information.

1.3.20 Luminaire—equipment which houses the lamp(s) and directs the light in desired
directions. It includes items necessary for fixing, protecting and operating the lamp(s).
1.3.21 Luminance—the physical quantity corresponding to the brightness of a surface
(e.g. a lamp, luminaire, sky or reflecting material) in a specified direction. It is the
luminous intensity of an area of the surface divided by that area.
Unit: candela per square metre (cd/m 2). Symbol: L.
1.3.22 Luminous flux—the measure of the quantity of light. For a lamp or luminaire it
normally refers to the total light emitted irrespective of the directions in which it is
distributed.
Unit: lumen (lm). Symbol: φ.
1.3.23 Luminous intensity—the concentration of luminous flux emitted in a specified
direction.
Unit: candela (cd). Symbol: I.
1.3.24 Maintained emergency luminaire (maintained exit sign)—an emergency
luminaire (exit sign) in which the emergency lighting lamp(s) are energized at all times
when normal or emergency lighting is required.
NOTE: See Figures C1, C2 and C3 of Appendix C for typical schematic arrangements for a
maintained, self-contained emergency luminaire.

1.3.25 Monitored supply—the electrical supply to normal lighting luminaires, failure of
which is sensed in order to activate the emergency lighting serving the same area.

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1.3.26 Mounting height—the vertical distance between the underside of a luminaire and
the floor.
1.3.27 Nominal system voltage—a reference voltage which is used as a basis for the
design of a central emergency lighting system.
NOTE: Preferred values of nominal system voltage are 12 V, 24 V, 32 V, 48 V, 110 V and
240 V.

1.3.28 Non-maintained emergency luminaire (non-maintained exit sign)—an
emergency luminaire (exit sign) in which the emergency lighting lamps are in operation
only when the supply to the normal lighting fails.
NOTE: See Figure C3 of Appendix C for a typical schematic arrangement for a non-maintained,
self-contained emergency luminaire.

1.3.29 Normal lighting—all installed electric lighting operating from the supply in
normal use which, in the absence of adequate daylight, is intended for use during the
whole time that the premises are occupied.
1.3.30 Reflectance (reflection factor)—the ratio of the total luminous flux reflected
from a surface to the total luminous flux which arrives at the surface. Usually expressed
as a decimal in the range 0 to 1, but may also be expressed as a percentage.

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Symbol: ρ.

1.3.31 Regulatory authority—the body having statutory powers to administer an Act of
Parliament, or the regulations of such an Act, pertaining to any matter covered by this
Standard.
1.3.32 Required in-service duration—the duration of operation of the emergency
lighting system which the regulatory authority requires the system to be capable of
providing at any time.
1.3.33 Reversible inverter—a device which functions as a battery charger while the
normal electricity supply is available and which, on failure of the normal supply, assumes
the function of an inverter supplying the emergency lighting from the emergency power
source.
1.3.34 Room index (K) — an index related to the dimensions of a room used for
calculation of the utilization factor and other characteristics of a lighting installation.
Room index is derived from the following equation:
K

a × b
h(a + b)

. . . 1.1

where
a, b = the dimensions of the sides of the room
h

= the height of the luminaires above the reference plane, e.g. floor.

1.3.35 Self-contained emergency luminaire (self-contained exit sign)—an emergency
luminaire (exit sign) containing or having mounted within 2 m of it, a battery, battery
charger, inverter (where used), and the controls necessary for sensing failure of the
normal supply and for changing over to the emergency supply, and vice versa.

1.3.36 Single-point (emergency lighting) system—a system of emergency lighting
employing self-contained emergency luminaires and exit signs.
1.3.37 Static inverter—a device capable of converting direct current to alternating
current without utilizing moving parts.
1.3.38 Sustained emergency luminaire (sustained exit sign) — an emergency luminaire
(exit sign) which incorporates at least two lamps, one energized from an emergency
supply and operated in a non-maintained mode, the other energized from the normal
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supply. Illumination is sustained either by the emergency lamp or the normal lighting
lamp.
NOTE: See also Clauses 1.3.7 and 1.3.29.

1.3.39 Utilization factor (UF) — the proportion of the luminous flux emitted by the
lamp(s) which reaches the reference plane.
NOTES:
1

In this Standard the reference plane for illuminance calculations is normally taken as a
horizontal plane at floor level.

2

Requirements for the calculation and presentation of utilization factors are given in
AS 1680.3.

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1.4 COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER STANDARDS The materials, equipment and
methods used in the installation of electrical wiring for the supply and control of
emergency lighting shall also comply with the following requirements, as appropriate:
(a)

In Australia AS 3000 or, for temporary structures, the appropriate requirements of
AS 3002.

(b)

In New Zealand Approved Document G9 of the New Zealand Building Code.

1.5 NEW DESIGNS AND INNOVATIONS Any alternative materials, designs,
methods of assembly and procedures that do not comply with specific requirements of this
Standard, or are not mentioned in it but give equivalent results to those specified, are not
necessarily prohibited. The specific approval remains the prerogative of the regulatory
authority.
1.6 ALTERATIONS AND ADDITIONS Any alterations or additions to an existing
emergency lighting installation shall be carried out in accordance with this Standard.
Where an addition or alteration to an existing installation will impair the operation of the
existing installation, the relevant portion of that installation shall be brought into
compliance with this Standard.
NOTE: Building alterations such as changes in partitioning, provision of additional rooms and,
for indirect lighting systems, changes to the surface finishes of ceilings and upper walls may
necessitate modifications to the emergency lighting system for continued compliance with this
Standard.

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S E C T I O N 2
S Y S T E M P E R F O R M A N C E ,
A R R A N G E M E N T A N D C O N T R O L
2.1 SCOPE OF SECTION This Section sets out requirements for the operational
performance, arrangement and control of emergency lighting systems. It also specifies a
discharge test, applicable at the time of commissioning the completed installation, to
check that the appropriate duration of operation is achieved.
2.2 OPERATION OF EMERGENCY LUMINAIRES AND EXIT SIGNS On failure
of the electrical supply to the normal lighting, emergency luminaires and exit signs shall
be automatically energized from their emergency supply, in accordance with Clause 2.4.2.
NOTE: AS/NZS 2293.3 specifies requirements for the rate of increase in light output from
emergency luminaires and exit signs, after energization from the emergency supply, under both
‘cold start’ and ‘hot start’ conditions.

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2.3 DURATION OF OPERATION The emergency lighting installation shall be
designed to operate in accordance with this Standard for the following periods:
(a)

Initial duration The duration of operation provided by the installation at the time
of commissioning shall be not less than 1.33 times the in-service duration required
in terms of Item (b) below.

This duration shall also apply whenever any batteries supplying the emergency
lighting are replaced during the life of the installation.

(b)

In-service duration The duration of operation provided throughout the life of the
installation shall not fall below 90 min or such period as may be required by the
building regulations.

NOTES:
1

The greater initial duration is required to allow for the depreciation in battery capacity
which will occur with time.

2

For New Zealand, required in-service durations for specific applications are given in
Approved Document F6 of the New Zealand Building Code.

2.4

ARRANGEMENT AND CONTROL

2.4.1 General Emergency luminaires and exit signs shall be ready for operation in
accordance with Clause 2.4.2, irrespective of whether the normal lighting in the area is in
use.
Where the lamps utilized in the normal lighting luminaires are of a type which will not
restrike immediately after restoration of the supply, one of the following measures shall
be taken:

(a)

Provision of a time delay or other suitable means to maintain the operation of the
emergency lighting for the period necessary to allow the normal lighting lamps to
restrike.

(b)

Installation of a proportion of normal lighting luminaires of a type which will
provide immediate lighting.

For Item (b), the luminaires shall be arranged throughout the designated area in such a
manner as to ensure that the visual conditions are not inferior to those provided by the
emergency lighting installed in accordance with this Standard.

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NOTES:
1

The purpose of the measures specified above is to prevent a period of total darkness
following a short interruption to the supply because, with certain types of discharge lamps, a
delay of from 3 min to 10 min may occur before the lamps have cooled sufficiently to
restrike.

2

Where automatic lighting control systems are used, care should be taken to ensure that there
are sufficient luminaires, not controlled by that system, to facilitate safe egress in the event
of the malfunction or failure of the lighting control system. In addition, it is recommended
that exit signs be of the maintained or combined type.

2.4.2

Sensing of supply failure

2.4.2.1 Central systems In central systems, the installation shall be arranged so that the
failure of the electrical supply to final subcircuits supplying normal lighting to a
designated area will automatically energize emergency luminaires and exit signs in the
area served by the normal lighting subcircuit. Loss of supply shall be sensed at the load
side of the device protecting the final subcircuit.

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Alternatively, where the designated area is served by two or more normal lighting
subcircuits, each final subcircuit need not be sensed for loss of supply provided that one
of the following arrangements applies:
(a)

At least 50% of the normal lighting subcircuits are sensed for loss of supply at the
load side of the protective device and the normal lighting luminaires on the
subcircuits which are sensed are distributed throughout the designated area in such a
manner that the illumination provided by these subcircuits alone is not inferior to
that afforded by the required emergency lighting.

(b)

At least three normal lighting subcircuits representing each phase of a three-phase
installation are sensed for loss of supply at the load side of the protective devices,
and the normal lighting luminaires on the subcircuits which are sensed are
distributed throughout the paths of travel of the designated area.

NOTE: See Figure C4 of Appendix C for an illustration of a circuit arrangement which
complies with the above.

2.4.2.2 Single-point systems In single-point systems, the self-contained emergency
luminaires and exit signs shall be arranged so that they are automatically connected to
their emergency power source upon failure of the electrical supply to the normal lighting
in the designated area.
NOTE: See Figures C1, C2 and C3 of Appendix C for illustrations of circuit arrangements
which comply with the above. See Clause 4.2 for additional requirements which may impact
upon the connection of self-contained emergency luminaires and exit signs for testing purposes.

2.5 LABELLING OF DEVICES CONTROLLING THE OPERATION OF
EMERGENCY LIGHTING Every device (e.g. circuit-breaker, switch, fuse) which, if
turned off or removed, will cause the emergency lighting to operate shall have the
following warning notice clearly and durably affixed on or immediately adjacent to it:
WARNING: INTERRUPTING SUPPLY WILL DISCHARGE EMERGENCY
LIGHTING BATTERIES.

2.6 COMMISSIONING TEST On completion of the installation, the operation of the
emergency lighting system shall be checked by carrying out a discharge test in accordance
with the relevant procedure in AS/NZS 2293.2; however, the duration of operation
provided shall be not less than that specified in Clause 2.3(a) of this Standard.

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S E C T I O N

3
E M E R G E N C Y P O W E R S U P P L I E S
F O R C E N T R A L S Y S T E M S

3.1 SCOPE OF SECTION This Section specifies requirements for components and
facilities associated with emergency power supplies for central systems.
3.2

EMERGENCY POWER SOURCE

3.2.1 Location Except where otherwise permitted in this Clause, the emergency power
source and associated equipment shall be located in a room or enclosure specifically
provided for the purpose. The room or enclosure shall not be used for any other purposes
except that spare parts and equipment required for maintenance of the emergency lighting
system may be stored therein.

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The emergency power source may be located in a room with battery systems associated
with building monitoring, fire safety or evacuation systems provided that the room
complies with the requirements of Clauses 3.2.2 to 3.2.4 and the emergency power source

is physically separated from the other equipment by a non-combustible barrier.
The emergency power source may be located external to the building which it serves,
provided that the wiring from the power source to the building which it serves complies
with Clause 6.4 and is protected from physical damage.
For temporary structures such as carnivals and shows, the power source need not be
located in a special room or enclosure, provided that —
(a)

the power source is located in an area accessible only to authorized persons, as
required by Clause 3.2.3, and is protected from physical damage and the weather;
and

(b)

the area is free from obstructions and, if not naturally ventilated, is ventilated in
accordance with Clause 3.2.4.

NOTES:
1

It is recommended that the normal electricity distribution centre and the emergency power
source be located in different fire compartments of the building.

2

Attention is drawn to the fact that where a theatre or group of theatres is incorporated as
part of a building complex, the regulatory authority may require the provision of separate
emergency power sources for the theatre(s) and for the remainder of the building.

3.2.2 Fire resistance Except where the emergency power source is located external to

the building in its own separate enclosure, the materials and methods utilized in the
construction of the room or enclosure provided in accordance with Clause 3.2.1 shall have
a fire resistance from the building to the room or enclosure housing the emergency power
source of not less than the following:
(a)

Where the designated area served by the emergency power source is not required to
be of fire-resisting elements—a fire-resistance level* of 15/15/15.

(b)

Where the designated area served by the emergency power source is required to be
of fire-resisting elements—a fire-resistance level which is the greater of the
following:
(i)

The fire-resistance level required for the building structure in accordance
with the Building Code of Australia or the New Zealand Building Code, as
applicable.

* In New Zealand, the term ‘fire-resistance rating’ has the same meaning as the term ‘fire-resistance level’.
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(ii)

A fire-resistance level corresponding to the duration of operation of the
emergency lighting system, specified in Clause 2.3(b).
For the purpose of this Clause, any construction complying with the requirements of
Appendix D shall be deemed to comply with Item (a).
3.2.3 Identification and access The purpose of the room or enclosure shall be clearly
identified by a label affixed on or adjacent to the access door. The label shall read
‘Emergency Lighting Power Source’ and shall contain an instruction permitting entry to
authorized persons only.
3.2.4 Ventilation
3.2.4.1 Limitation of temperatures The room or enclosure shall be of such dimensions
or so ventilated that the temperature of electrical materials and equipment will not exceed
the maximum values permitted in AS/NZS 3100 at any time, including during discharge
testing in accordance with AS/NZS 2293.2.

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NOTE: Particular consideration should be given to ensuring that adequate ventilation is
provided during periods that the emergency lighting is called upon to operate, i.e. to limit
temperatures attained in the absence of the normal supply.

3.2.4.2 Maintenance of fire resistance Any ventilation provided shall be arranged so
that the fire resistance required by Clause 3.2.2 is maintained.
3.2.5 Use of uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems Uninterruptible power
supply (UPS) systems may be used to serve as the emergency power source for central
systems provided that they—
(a) are used solely for that purpose; and
(b) comply with the applicable requirements of this Section.
NOTE: Care should be taken in the selection of the UPS system to ensure that it is capable of
starting up the connected emergency lighting load solely on the supply from the inverter, i.e. to
accommodate peak inrush currents associated with the switching of certain types of lamps from

cold.

3.3 BATTERIES AND THEIR INSTALLATION
3.3.1 Acceptable types of batteries Batteries shall be of a type specifically designed
for continuous float charging conditions. The following are examples of the types of
batteries which comply with this requirement:
(a) Stationary batteries of the lead-acid Plante positive plate type complying with
AS 2191.
(b) Lead-acid stationary batteries of the vented type complying with AS 4029.1.
(c) Lead-acid stationary batteries of the sealed, valve-regulated type complying with
AS 4029.2.
(d) Lead-acid stationary batteries of the pure-lead, positive pasted-plate type complying
with AS 4029.3.
(d) Nickel-cadmium stationary batteries of the vented or sealed type complying with
AS 3731.1 or AS 3731.2, as applicable.
(e) Heavy duty lead-acid batteries with tubular positive plates.
NOTE: Lead-acid batteries of the type designed for motor vehicle starting and home lighting
applications do not comply with the above requirement.

Where the cells used are of a type which require maintenance of the electrolyte above a
specified level, facilities shall be provided to permit visual inspection of the electrolyte
level against reference marks.
NOTE: Cells which incorporate dip sticks for checking the electrolyte level are acceptable.

3.3.2 Battery capacity The capacity of the battery shall be such that it is capable of
supplying an output final voltage of not less than the following:
(a) For d.c. reticulation systems—85% of the nominal system voltage.

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(b)

For a.c. reticulation systems—the minimum voltage recommended by the battery
manufacturer, provided that the a.c. voltage is maintained in accordance with
Clause 3.5.3.
The minimum voltage specified in Items (a) or (b), as applicable, shall be measured at the
battery terminals and shall apply—
(i)
when the total emergency lighting load is connected for the duration specified in
Clause 2.3(a); and
(ii) at any temperature within the range of ambient temperatures which can be expected
at the battery location.
The number of cells employed in the battery shall be such that the individual cell voltages
will not fall below those recommended by the battery manufacturer, account being taken
of the rate of discharge.
3.3.3 Installation requirements
3.3.3.1 General The battery system shall be installed in accordance with AS 3011.1 or
AS 3011.2, as applicable, and with the additional requirements of Clauses 3.3.3.2 to
3.3.3.5.

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NOTE: Guidance on the installation, maintenance, testing and replacement of secondary
batteries in buildings is provided in AS 2676.1 (for vented cells) and AS 2676.2 (for sealed
cells).

3.3.3.2 Battery enclosure/stand The materials used in the construction of the battery
enclosure or stand shall be inherently resistant to the corrosive effects of the battery
electrolyte or shall be treated to prevent corrosion.
3.3.3.3 Unearthed supply system The battery system shall be unearthed. An earth-fault
detection system shall be installed to warn of the breakdown of either conductor to earth.
The sensitivity of the earth-fault detection system shall not exceed 10 mA.
3.3.3.4 Battery connections All connections to the battery shall be made with bolted
lugs. The battery shall not be tapped for intermediate voltage and shall not be used for
any function other than the supply of emergency lighting in accordance with this
Standard.
Each conductor between the battery charger and the battery shall be fitted with an
overcurrent protection device to protect the battery from discharging into the battery
charger in the event of a fault condition, located such that the battery is not prevented
from supplying the emergency lighting after operation of the overcurrent device due to a
fault in the charger.
All outgoing circuits from the battery to the load shall be protected in each conductor by
a fuse or circuit-breaker positioned as close as practicable to, but not more than 5 m from,
the battery.
3.3.3.5 Rating plate A rating plate bearing the following information shall be securely
fixed on or adjacent to the battery enclosure/stand in such a position as to be readily seen
upon gaining access to the enclosure or on approaching the battery stand, as appropriate:
(a) Manufacturer’s brand name.
(b) Manufacturer’s catalogue number.
(c) Number of cells and rated capacity, in ampere hours, of each cell at a specified rate
of discharge.
(d) Duty ratings, as follows:
(i)
Amperes.
(ii) Period.

(iii) End volts.
(iv) Temperature.
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3.4

AS/NZS 2293.1:1998

BATTERY CHARGER ASSEMBLY

3.4.1 General Battery chargers shall comply with the requirements for a Type 1
battery charger in AS 4044 and with the requirements of Clauses 3.4.2 to 3.4.8 of this
Standard. The requirements for alarms in Clause 3.4.7 shall apply in place of those given
in AS 4044.
Where provision is made for automatic or manual selection of boost charging, the battery
charger shall automatically reset to the float charge mode at the termination of boost
charging.
3.4.2 Control of output voltage The charging equipment arrangements shall be such
that, during charging with any load connected, the voltage appearing at the origin of the
emergency lighting distribution system will not exceed 116% of the nominal system
voltage.
NOTE: The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that emergency luminaires and exit signs
will not be subjected to voltages in excess of those for which they are designed.

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3.4.3

Rating of battery charger

The rating of the battery charger shall be such that—

(a)

after the battery has been discharged from the fully charged state by supplying the
total connected emergency lighting load for the duration specified in Clause 2.3(a);
and

(b)

after recharging for a period of not more than 16 h;

the battery shall have recovered to the extent that it is capable of sustaining an additional
discharge as specified in Item (a). The output voltage at the end of each discharge period
shall be in accordance with Clause 3.3.2.
NOTE: For certain premises (e.g. theatres) a shorter recovery period than 16 h may be
necessary to enable re-occupation of the premises after operation of the emergency lighting.

Where a maintained system is employed and the output of the battery charger is used to
supply the standing load, the rating of the battery charger shall be such that, in addition to
supplying the normal power requirements, it will be capable of maintaining the battery
and recharging it as specified above.
Where a separate inverter is employed, the rating of the battery charger shall take account
of the need to operate the inverter on no-load, in accordance with Clause 3.5.2.
3.4.4 Enclosure of battery charger The battery charger shall be housed in an
enclosure of adequate strength and rigidity. The battery charger may be incorporated in
the battery enclosure provided that it is housed in a separate compartment.

3.4.5 Battery low-voltage alarms Visible and audible alarms shall be provided which
shall be actuated when the battery voltage falls below the relevant value specified in
Clause 3.3.2. The alarms shall be energized from the battery and the visual alarm shall be
of a type which requires manual resetting.
3.4.6 Means for disconnecting the emergency lighting load Where provision is made
for manual disconnection of the battery from the emergency lighting load, the isolating
switch or device shall be either—
(a)

arranged so that, when in the isolated position, it also isolates the normal lighting or
a part of the normal lighting which is essential for the normal occupation of the
building; or

(b)

installed in a manner which will ensure that the switch or device is not left in the
isolated position when the building is in use.

NOTE: The manual isolating switch or device may be used to permit disconnection of the
emergency lighting load—
(i)

during periods when the building is unoccupied; or
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(ii) when the battery has been discharged to the low voltage alarm limit by operation of the
emergency lighting;
to protect the battery from damage which may result from being excessively discharged.

The requirements of Items (a) and (b) do not apply to the battery isolator provided in
accordance with AS 3011.1 or AS 3011.2.
Provision may be made for automatic disconnection of the battery from the load to protect
the battery from damage due to excessively low voltage.
NOTE: The battery supplier should be consulted in the selection of the appropriate voltage
setting for the protective device.

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3.4.7 Instrumentation and controls The battery charger assembly shall incorporate
the following instrumentation and control equipment:
(a)

Isolating switch for the a.c. supply.

(b)

Indicating light for the a.c. supply.

(c)

Voltmeter (d.c.) marked to indicate both the float and boost charge voltages.

(d)

Charging ammeter (d.c.).

(e)

Load ammeter (d.c.).

(f)

A float/manual boost charge selector switch of the momentary operation type, where
provision is made for manual selection of boost charging (see Clause 3.4.1).

(g)

A device to prevent backfeed to the charger from the battery in the event of a fault
occurring in the battery charger (see Clause 3.3.3.4).

(h)

Fuses or circuit-breakers for outgoing emergency lighting circuits.

(i)

Battery earth-fault alarm (see Clause 3.3.3.3).

(j)

Battery low-voltage alarm (see Clause 3.4.5).

(k)

Battery charger failure alarm, sensed from the output of the charger.

(l)

An indicating light to provide warning of when the battery isolating switch is in the
isolated position.
NOTE: AS 3011.1 and AS 3011.2 require that an isolating switch be installed at the battery to
facilitate safe working on the battery system.

Voltmeters and ammeters shall have an intrinsic error of not greater than permitted for
instruments of Class Index 2 complying with IEC 60051-1, IEC 60051-2 and
IEC 60051-9.
NOTES:
1

An additional d.c. load ammeter may be located remotely from the battery charger.

2

Additional requirements for alarm systems are specified in Clause 3.6.

3.4.8 Rating plate A rating plate bearing the following information shall be securely
fixed on or adjacent to the battery charger:
(a)

Manufacturer’s brand name.

(b)

Manufacturer’s catalogue number.

(c)

Manufacturer’s serial number.

(d)

Float voltage at a specified battery temperature.

(e)

Boost voltage.

(f)

Charger output current.

(g)

Date of manufacture.
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Where the battery charger is incorporated within the battery enclosure, the information
may be combined with that required by Clause 3.3.3.5, on a single rating plate.
3.5

INVERTERS

3.5.1 Reversible inverters Reversible inverters shall be arranged so that major power
components within the inverter are utilized in the battery charger mode to ensure that,
upon operation due to mains failure, no ‘warm-up’ breakdown will occur.
While the normal electricity supply is available to the inverter, the inverter shall function
as a battery charger in accordance with Clause 3.4. On failure of the electricity supply,
the inverter shall be automatically disconnected from the mains and function as an
inverter in accordance with Clause 3.5.3. The inverter shall automatically resume the
function of a battery charger on restoration of the supply.
NOTE: Disconnection of the inverter from the mains is required to prevent the inverter from
feeding the mains as well as the emergency lighting.

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3.5.2 Separate inverter In systems which employ a separate inverter and battery
charger, the inverter shall be continuously energized even if not carrying load. A mains
failure changeover contactor shall be provided to switch the lighting load from the normal
supply to the inverter output and vice versa.
3.5.3 Inverter rating The inverter shall be capable of continuously supplying the total
connected emergency lighting and shall operate in accordance with the following
requirements:
(a)

Output frequency regulation: ±5% of rated frequency.

(b)

Output voltage regulation: ±5% for all values of load, up to and including 100% of
the total connected emergency lighting load, over the permissible d.c. input voltage

range (see Clause 3.3.2(b)).

3.5.4 Instrumentation and controls
with each inverter:

The following instrumentation shall be provided

(a)

Voltmeter (d.c.).

(b)

Ammeter (d.c.).

(c)

Output voltmeter (a.c.).

(d)

Output ammeter (a.c.).

(e)

Indicating light or other suitable means of indicating the presence of an a.c. input
supply.

(f)

Alarm to give warning of when there is no a.c. output from the inverter.

Voltmeters and ammeters shall have an intrinsic error of not greater than permitted for
instruments of Class Index 2 complying with IEC 60051-1, IEC 60051-2 and
IEC 60051-9.
NOTE: Additional requirements for alarm systems are specified in Clause 3.6.

3.5.5 Inverter enclosure The inverter shall be enclosed in accordance with the
requirements of Clause 3.4.4. The enclosure shall be designed or arranged so as to provide
ready access to all components.
3.6 ALARM SYSTEMS Alarm systems capable of providing continuous visible and
audible signals shall be provided to warn of any malfunction of the emergency lighting
supply. The alarm systems shall be—
(a)

activated by the existence of any of the conditions listed in Items (i), (j), (k) and (l)
of Clause 3.4.7 and Item (f) of Clause 3.5.4; and
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(b)

20

capable of responding to momentary and maintained activating signals.

Provision may be made for muting of the audible alarm signal, provided that the muting
device will automatically reset when the alarm system is reset. Resetting of the alarm

system shall be possible only if the actuating alarm signal is no longer present.
The alarm signalling devices shall be located so that the emitted signals may be seen and
heard by persons responsible for the building during occupation.

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Where a remote alarm panel is provided, a common visual alarm indication may be
employed, provided that the alarm conditions listed in Items (i), (j), (k) and (l) of
Clause 3.4.7 and Item (f) of Clause 3.5.4 are separately displayed at the battery charger
assembly. The remote alarm panel shall be appropriately identified.

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21

S E C T I O N

4

AS/NZS 2293.1:1998

P R O V I S I O N O F D I S C H A R G E
T E S T F A C I L I T I E S

4.1 SCOPE OF SECTION This Section sets out requirements for the facilities used
for conducting periodic discharge tests on the emergency lighting system, as required by
AS/NZS 2293.2.
NOTE: The intervals at which such tests should be carried out and the criteria which should be
satisfied are set out in AS/NZS 2293.2. The Standard also details the required inspection and

maintenance actions associated with such tests.

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4.2 REQUIRED FACILITIES Facilities shall be provided for conducting a discharge
test on all emergency luminaires and exit signs without necessitating disconnection of
supply to the normal lighting. Such facilities shall be either manually initiated or
automatically initiated and shall comply with the requirements of Clause 4.3 or
Clause 4.4, as applicable.
The arrangement adopted shall check the correct functioning of all elements normally
involved in controlling the operation of the emergency luminaires and exit signs. The
normal provision for sensing loss of supply (see Clause 2.4.2) may be overridden for the
duration of the discharge test but shall be automatically reinstated at the conclusion of the
test.
The test facility shall be arranged so that no charging current is supplied to the battery
during the performance of a discharge test.
NOTE: It should be noted that, for part of the period during and immediately after a discharge
test, the building may be without effective emergency lighting. This risk is considered
acceptable, except when the regulatory authority deems otherwise. When selecting a time for the
discharge test, consideration should be given to the nature of the occupancy of the building in
order to minimize the risk, e.g. conducting the test at a time which will permit recharging of the
batteries when the building is unoccupied.

4.3 MANUAL TESTING FACILITIES Where provision is made for manual initiation
of a discharge test on the emergency luminaires and exit signs, the test facilities shall
comply with the following:
(a)

The test facility shall provide for the operation of the relevant group of emergency
luminaires and exit signs by simulating a supply failure. For single-point systems,

separate test facilities may be provided to control specific groups of emergency
luminaires and exit signs, e.g. related to particular areas of the building. For central
systems, the test facility shall ensure the simultaneous operation of all emergency
luminaires and exit signs connected to the central battery.
NOTE: For some central systems, it will be necessary to install linking control wiring to
effect a simulation of supply failure, simultaneously at all points where loss of normal
supply is sensed.

(b)

The test facility shall be capable of being manually reset, but shall automatically
revert to the normal state at the conclusion of the discharge test.
NOTE: Provision may be made for continuance of the discharge test beyond the required inservice duration (see Clause 2.3).

(c)

The test facility shall be either key-operated or located in a position with restricted
access, e.g. in the switchboard enclosure supplying the normal lighting to the area
concerned.

(d)

The function of the test facility shall be clearly identified, e.g. ‘Emergency Lighting
Test Switch’.
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AS/NZS 2293.1:1998

4.4

22

AUTOMATIC TESTING FACILITIES

4.4.1 System requirements The test facility shall ensure that each emergency
luminaire and exit sign is automatically subjected to a discharge test in accordance with
the relevant procedure and test intervals specified in AS/NZS 2293.2.
The system used to time the interval between successive discharge tests shall not be
affected during periods when the normal supply is interrupted.
The test facility shall be arranged so that, if the automatic timing and control system is
rendered inoperative or malfunctions for any reason, the emergency luminaires and exit
signs will still be capable of functioning in response to loss of supply in accordance with
Clause 2.4.2.1 or Clause 2.4.2.2, as appropriate.
Provision shall also be made for the manual initiation of a discharge test by any
appropriate means.

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4.4.2 Fully self-contained facilities Where individual emergency luminaires or exit
signs incorporate facilities for automatic discharge testing, the system used shall comply
with the applicable requirements in Section 4 of AS/NZS 2293.3.
4.4.3 Centralized testing facilities Where provision is made for centralized control of
the automatic discharge testing of a group of emergency luminaires or exit signs, the
relevant requirements for self-contained automatic discharge testing facilities in Section 4
of AS/NZS 2293.3 shall apply, in addition to the following:
(a)

Each emergency luminaire and exit sign within a controlled group shall be clearly
identified in a manner which relates to a signal displayed on the central controller

for easy identification of the affected fitting.

(b)

The operation of each emergency luminaire and exit sign shall be monitored during
the test. Notwithstanding Section 4 of AS/NZS 2293.3, the indications of
operational state required at each emergency luminaire and exit sign need not be
provided, subject to these indications being available at the central controller or
other designated monitoring points. The indications may be in any appropriate form
which is capable of being observed at those locations.

(c)

For single-point systems, provision may be made for varying the test program, in
terms of the sequence and timing of the tests. However, the arrangement shall
ensure that each emergency luminaire and exit sign in the group is tested at
intervals of not more than that specified in AS/NZS 2293.2.

(d)

The communication system utilized for control and data transfer between the central
controller and each emergency luminaire and exit sign in the group may be of any
appropriate type affording adequate reliability for the purpose. Indication shall be
provided at the controller of any failure of the communication system.

NOTE: Consideration should be given to the need to safeguard against possible maloperation of
centrally controlled automatic testing systems resulting from electromagnetic interference from
other equipment or systems.

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