Which type of emergency lighting is required by the Life Safety Code for means of egress in educational and institutional occupancies?

The Life Safety Code mandates that Type 1 emergency lighting systems be installed in educational and institutional occupancies to ensure safe egress during emergencies. Type 1 systems provide illumination for the path of egress, enabling occupants to navigate safely and effectively out of the building if the primary lighting fails due to power outages or other emergencies.

Type 1 lighting systems are required to be powered by a reliable source to ensure they remain operational when needed. This includes installed battery backup systems that automatically activate in the event of a power loss. The characteristics of Type 1 emergency lighting ensure that it provides adequate illumination levels, making it possible for people to safely exit, which is critical in environments where many individuals, such as students or patients, might be present.

In institutional and educational contexts, compliance with these Codes is essential not only for safety but also for maintaining building occupancy standards. The design of Type 1 emergency lighting helps facilitate a clear and safe evacuation, which is a top priority in such settings.