We’ve recently completed a lighting sensor upgrade for our client’s warehouse at Brackmills, Northampton.
Although they already had sensor controlled LED lighting, poor quality fittings were causing problems. Some were producing smoke and even dropping melted hot plastic.
Understandably, faulty electrical units are always a serious concern, both for the quality of lighting and safety. The landlord asked us to re-design and install replacement units.
The solution
As a 24-hour operation our clients wanted to maintain low level lighting across the site for security.
As always, our thanks to Midshires Electrical & Lighting for the energy-saving design which halved the number of fittings.
We installed Robus lighting controls, programmed to reduce lighting to 10% when they don’t detect any movement. Movement immediately returns lighting levels to 100%.
Making the right choices for warehouse LED lighting
There’s a strong business case for replacing energy-hungry halogen and fluorescent lights with modern LEDs. However, you will want to make the best possible choices for your business. As in this case, saving money on the products or installation can lead to extra costs for replacements later. It’s also essential to make sure your lighting improves working conditions and safety.
Flexible lighting options. The type of LED lighting needed in warehouses depends on the size of building and your type of operation. Whether you use floor stacking methods or moveable racking, lighting must provide safe working conditions. You may also need to prioritise things like colour identification or reading detailed labels, for example.
Reduced costs. LEDs use much less energy than older style lights so you will soon see a return on your investment. They require very little servicing and have a proven long life, so you can also reduce your ongoing maintenance costs. Your employees can work more efficiently and won’t have to deal with disruption caused by frequent lighting repairs and replacements. If temperature control is important, you can also reduce cooling costs because LEDs emit very little heat.
Health and safety. The constant movement of people and machinery in warehouses makes them high risk environments. Dark or badly lit areas can put employees and visitors in danger. Maintaining good levels of lighting cost effectively improves visibility to help minimise these risks. Improved working conditions also help to maintain morale and productivity. LEDs are also ideal for legally required emergency lighting.
Environmental conditions. Loading bays and entrances expose lighting installations to the weather and changing temperatures. Water, shock and impact-resistant LED fittings with high ingress protection (IP) ratings reduce problems with corrosion and wear and tear.
Lighting controls. Unlike older light fittings, LEDs are more efficient and longer lasting when run at less than full power. Smart controls, timers and motion sensors provide intelligent lighting solutions which only operate when needed, increasing energy savings.
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