Maintenance of Lighting Systems
Luminaires that denote a NSF2 (National Sanitation Foundation) listing have been evaluated for corrosion resistance, cleanability and the ability of exposed material to withstand normal wear. This supports the infection control standards established by healthcare facilities as it indicates that the luminaire is easy to sanitize [25]. Another method in sanitizing fixtures is the application of antimicrobial finishes on fixtures prevents growth of bacteria on a surface and allows for ease of routine wipe down.
Cleaning the lighting system involves washing or removing dirt from the luminaires, and occasionally cleaning and repainting room surfaces. It also requires routine replacement of failed or deteriorated lamps and control gear. Group relamping involves replacing all of the lamps in a system together after a fixed interval which can reduce the cost of operating a system while maintaining illuminance levels. Replaced lamps, wire, ballasts and control gear must be disposed of according to state and federal guidelines to reduce the impact of electrical and electronic equipment on the environment. An effective and properly executed maintenance plan minimizes the required number of luminaires needed for a space, thus minimizing capital and energy costs.
Problem: Routine maintenance is necessary in assuring light quality and quantity of light; however, to the user it may seem time consuming. Improper cleaning and lack of cleaning will impact the light output and life of the lighting system, besides having an adverse impact on the health of the residents.
Possible Solutions:
- Specify a lighting system that assures the proper lighting quantity and quality intended for task performance, safety, and aesthetics
- Follow group re-lamping procedures to reduce the cost of operating a system while maintaining illuminance levels
- AWA specified lighting control system that can provide diagnostics on lamp failure
- AWA specifications that make the fixture conform to required NSF Standards
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