Topic: Conversion Of Foot Candles To Watts
User: north star, Location: inside Area 51
Asked on: Monday, April 18, 2011 at 11:29 am EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 4:19 am EDT
Question: & & & &From the 2006 IBC, Section 1006.2:"The means of egress illumination level shall be not less than 1 foot candle( 11 lux ) at the walking surface."Can someone please provide a calculation or conversion of "foot candles [ "lux" ]to watts.....I know that the installation height of the lighting fixture willhave a determination of the amount of watts required to be able to providea compliant installation of illumination at the foot level.How do you determine a compliant location of the combo "Exit & EmergencyLight Packs"?Thanks for any input!& & & &
Foot Candles to Watts Conversion
Foot candles (fc) and lux (lx) are both units of illuminance, which measure the amount of light falling on a surface. The conversion between foot candles and lux is
1 foot candle = 10.76 lux
Therefore, to convert 1 foot candle to lux:
1 fc 10.76 lux/fc = 10.76 lux
Compliant Location of Exit & Emergency Light PacksThe installation height of lighting fixtures is a critical factor in determining the number of watts needed to provide compliant illumination at the foot level. The IBC does not specify the installation height for exit and emergency light packs, but it does provide general guidance for determining compliant locations:
Position
Exit and emergency lights should be located near emergency exits and clearly visible from all points within the exit access path.
Accessibility
Exit and emergency lights should be easily accessible for maintenance and testing.
Obstructions
Exit and emergency lights should not be obstructed by objects or fixtures that may impair their visibility.*
Illuminance Levels
The illumination level at the walking surface should be not less than 1 foot candle (11 lux).
Determining Compliant IlluminationTo determine the compliant location of exit and emergency light packs, follow these steps:1.
Establish the Required Illuminance
Determine the required illuminance level at the walking surface, which is 1 foot candle (11 lux).2.
Select Lighting Fixture
Choose an exit and emergency light pack that is designed to provide the required illuminance level at the desired installation height.3.
Determine Installation Height
Refer to the manufacturer's specifications for the recommended installation height of the lighting fixture.4.
Position the Fixture
Install the exit and emergency light pack near an emergency exit and ensure it is clearly visible from all points within the exit access path. Avoid obstructions that may impair its visibility.
Note: It is always recommended to consult with a qualified electrician to ensure a compliant and effective installation of exit and emergency lighting systems.
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