Centralized and decentralized emergency lighting are two different systems for ensuring lighting in emergency situations, such as power outages or other emergencies. Both systems must be installed in buildings according to regulations, such as the Building Decree . The purpose of both systems is to safely evacuate people, but they operate in different ways.
1. Central emergency lighting
With central emergency lighting, a building's entire emergency lighting system is controlled by a single central unit. This system consists of a central battery and associated charging and control units , which supply power to all emergency lighting devices in the building in the event of a power failure.
Features of central emergency lighting:
- Central power supply : The lighting is powered by a single central battery that supplies the building's emergency lighting. This battery is connected to multiple emergency lighting points, such as emergency lights and lighting systems along escape routes.
- Maintenance and monitoring : Because all emergency lighting is controlled by a single system, it's relatively easy to monitor its maintenance and status. The central unit often has a control panel where the battery and lighting status can be checked.
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Advantages :
- Easier maintenance : You only have one central unit to maintain and check.
- Cost-saving : Installing one central unit can be less expensive than installing multiple decentralized systems, especially in large buildings.
- Reliability : Because the central unit is checked regularly, the reliability of the system is often considered to be high.
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Disadvantages :
- Dependence on a single system : If the central unit fails, this can affect the operation of the emergency lighting in the entire building.
- Complexity in large buildings : In large buildings it may be necessary to run long cables, which increases installation costs and complexity.
2. Decentralized emergency lighting
With decentralized emergency lighting, each emergency lighting point has its own independent battery or power supply. This means that each emergency lamp or fixture functions independently without relying on a central battery.
Features of decentralized emergency lighting:
- Self-contained power supply : Each emergency light has its own battery that ensures continued operation during power outages. These batteries are usually charged via the mains during normal operation.
- No central unit : There is no central power source or control panel; instead, all emergency lighting systems are powered independently of each other.
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Advantages :
- Improved reliability : Because each light point operates independently, the system is more robust. If a problem occurs with one unit, it won't affect the others.
- Flexibility in installation : Decentralized systems are easier to install in buildings where it is not practical or cost-effective to use a central system.
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Disadvantages :
- Higher maintenance : Because each unit must be checked individually, maintenance of a decentralized installation can be more time-consuming and expensive.
- Potentially higher costs per unit : Installing multiple independent units can be more expensive than a central system, especially in larger buildings.
Comparison of central and decentralized emergency lighting:
| Feature | Central emergency lighting | Decentralized emergency lighting |
|---|---|---|
| Power supply | One central battery for the entire system | Each unit has its own battery |
| Installation | Often more complex for larger buildings | Easier for smaller or difficult to wire buildings |
| Reliability | Dependent on one system, so risk of failure | More reliable, each unit works independently |
| Maintenance | Easier to monitor and maintain | More maintenance required per unit, because each unit must be checked separately |
| Costs | Lower initial costs for large buildings | Higher initial cost per unit, but potentially more cost-effective for smaller installations |
| Application | Suitable for large buildings and industrial environments | Suitable for smaller or difficult to reach locations |
Choice between central and decentralized emergency lighting:
- Central emergency lighting is often chosen in large buildings or complex installations where it is important to manage all emergency lighting via one system, for example in office buildings , hospitals or shops .
- Decentralised emergency lighting, on the other hand, may be suitable for smaller buildings or public spaces where ease of installation and reliability in a less complex situation are more important.
In both cases, the emergency lighting must meet the requirements of the Building Decree and other relevant standards (such as NEN 1010 and NEN-EN 1838 ), which require that emergency lighting functions effectively in the event of a power failure, so that people can leave the building safely.