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Building Decree

The Building Decree is the Dutch law and regulation that sets the minimum requirements for the construction and safety of buildings, including lighting . The goal of the Building Decree is to ensure that buildings are safe, healthy, and accessible for all users. Lighting plays a key role in this, especially in terms of safety , health , and comfort .

Lighting requirements in the Building Decree:

The Building Decree stipulates various requirements for lighting in buildings. This applies to both emergency lighting and general lighting . Lighting must comply with the technical regulations that facilitate the building's use, both under normal circumstances and in emergencies. Below are some important aspects of lighting in the Building Decree:

1. Emergency lighting :

According to the Building Decree, emergency lighting systems must be installed in buildings that, due to their nature of use or size, pose a particular risk in the event of an emergency, such as a fire or power outage . Emergency lighting is essential for the safe and rapid evacuation of a building and must meet the following requirements:

  • Escape route lighting : Escape routes must be well-lit so people can exit the building quickly and safely. This includes emergency lighting along hallways and stairwells , as well as at the building exits .
  • Lighting of hazardous areas : Areas where danger may arise (for example due to fire or smoke) must also be adequately lit so that people can orient themselves and evacuate.
  • Minimum light intensity : The lighting on escape routes must meet a minimum light intensity, often defined in lux (the measure of illumination). The standard for emergency lighting is often defined in the NEN 1010 and NEN-EN 1838 standards.
  • Autonomous operation : Emergency lighting must be able to function independently in the event of a power failure, usually via batteries that can ensure emergency lighting for a certain period of time (usually 1 to 3 hours).

2. Lighting of workplaces :

The Building Decree sets requirements for lighting in workspaces to ensure the health and comfort of users. Lighting must:

  • Sufficient for the task being performed : Work areas must have sufficient light to work safely without causing fatigue or health problems.
  • Adapted to the nature of the work : The nature of the work is taken into account (for example office work, production work or laboratories), where certain light intensity and light distribution require that account be taken of the activity taking place in the space.

3. Lighting in public and communal areas :

Lighting in public and communal areas such as stairwells, hallways, and other passageways in buildings must comply with the Building Decree requirements. This applies to:

  • Safety : People must be able to move and evacuate easily.
  • Visibility and orientation : Lighting should be bright enough to help people find the correct route or exits.

4. Energy performance :

The Building Decree also imposes requirements for the energy performance of buildings, including heating , insulation , and lighting . Emphasis is placed on:

  • Efficient energy use : The use of energy-efficient lighting systems such as LED lighting is encouraged to reduce energy consumption.
  • Daylighting : There should be sufficient windows or other means to admit daylight, which can reduce the use of artificial lighting and contribute to the comfort and energy performance of the building.

5. Accessibility :

For buildings that must be accessible to people with disabilities , the Building Decree sets requirements for lighting that is clearly visible and legible for people with visual impairments. This may include, for example:

  • Contrast lighting : For people with visual impairments it is important that there is sufficient contrast between the lighting and the environment.
  • Clear illumination of emergency exits and warning signs that are clearly visible, even for people with poor vision.

6. Lighting of facades and outdoor spaces :

Some buildings, especially commercial ones , must comply with lighting requirements that also apply to the illumination of outdoor areas and facades . This can be relevant, for example, to improve safety around the building, so that people can easily find their way outside.

Summary:

The Building Decree establishes clear rules and standards for lighting in buildings, with an emphasis on safety, health, and energy efficiency. It regulates matters such as emergency lighting , workplace lighting , and accessible lighting . The goal is to ensure that buildings are not only safe and functional but also contribute to the comfort and well-being of their occupants, while complying with the necessary legal requirements and standards.