Overview
ISO 30061:2007 (CIE S 020/E) – Emergency lighting defines the luminous requirements for emergency lighting systems installed in premises accessible to the public or workers. Its primary objective is to provide visual conditions that reduce panic and enable safe evacuation when the normal lighting supply fails. The standard sets minimum design values for escape lighting, escape route lighting, open‑area (anti‑panic) lighting, high‑risk task area lighting, standby lighting and the illumination of safety signs, and includes guidance on performance in smoke-filled conditions.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and purpose: Minimum luminous design requirements for emergency lighting intended to aid evacuation and safety.
- Escape route lighting:
- Horizontal illuminance on the floor along the centre line: not less than 1 lx for routes up to 2 m wide; central band (≥ half width) must receive at least 50% of that value.
- Maximum/minimum illuminance ratio along the centre line: ≤ 40:1.
- Disability glare must be limited by controlling luminous intensity of luminaires; specific limits by mounting height are given in the standard.
- Open area (anti‑panic) lighting:
- Horizontal illuminance: not less than 0.5 lx at floor level (excluding a 0.5 m perimeter border).
- Maximum/minimum ratio: ≤ 40:1.
- Specific points and tasks:
- Stairs, changes in level, exits, firefighting equipment, first aid posts and high‑risk task areas must receive additional emphasis; some locations require minimum 5 lx at floor level.
- High‑risk task area lighting to enable safe shutdown procedures.
- Duration and response time (recommended minima if national rules absent):
- Duration: 60 min (180 min recommended where risk requires).
- Response: 50% of required illuminance within 20 s (full within 60 s). For critical tasks, 50% within 5 s is recommended.
- Safety signs and colour:
- Requirements for illumination, luminance and uniformity of safety signs; colour rendering index Ra > 40 to ensure identification of safety colours.
- Smoke influence:
- Special provisions; e.g., luminaires are recommended to be mounted at least 0.5 m below the ceiling when smoke is a prime concern.
Applications and who uses this standard
- Lighting designers and electrical engineers specifying emergency lighting schemes.
- Building owners, facility managers and safety officers implementing escape route and anti‑panic lighting.
- Manufacturers of emergency luminaires and systems designing product performance to meet requirements.
- Regulators and consultants harmonizing local codes with international best practice.
Related standards
Note: ISO 30061:2007 provides minimum luminous criteria. Always consult the full standard and local authorities when designing or certifying emergency lighting systems.
