Guide to
Luminaires
Introduction
Users have an endless choice of suitable luminaires (light fittings) for
lighting interior and exterior areas. While product safety is important, so
is the creation of a safe and attractive lighting installation that allows
occupants to move around safely and perform their tasks efficiently.
Since the safety of products and their reliability are fairly clearly defined in standards and
specifications, these can be determined through suitable testing and inspection. Although
a luminaire’s photometric performance, its utilisation of light, its energy efficiency and lamp
efficacy are often more difficult to determine, these are also important aspects to consider.
Choice of decorative luminaires is frequently based on the aesthetic appearance of the
luminaire without any consideration of the light distribution and effectiveness of the light
emitted from the luminaire. Light distribution and luminaire appearance should fit the
environment and the application and these are based on personal preference, however, the
advice of professional lighting designers is often required.
The user needs to understand some basic concepts to assist in making a thoroughly
considered choice. This is of great importance, especially in luminaire retro-fit projects
where the end result can prove to be a disastrous and costly exercise for the user or owner.
Note: Where efficiency values for luminaires of
100% are claimed, the concept of replaceable light
source was used for the calculation, which gives
the incorrect value. In this instance the lm/input W
value should be used for comparison purposes.
Light utilisation, percent: This is the percentage of light emitted from the luminaire that illuminates a specified area. Light utilisation of luminaires needs to be calculated for each application by the lighting installation designer to ensure optimum selection of luminaires. (Photometric data for luminaires can be obtained from the manufacturer.)
Lamp life, hours: The rated lamp life of lamps is generally based on the average life of a sample of lamps burning under controlled conditions. It gives the number of burning hours at which 50% of the lamps in the sample have burnt out.
Glare: A condition of vision that is caused by luminance (brightness) that exceeds the luminance to which the eyes are adapted and that causes annoyance or discomfort or reduction in visual performance and vision.
Note: Lighting installations that appear to be ‘bright and sparkling’ could be an indication of excessive glare and may be detrimental to the performance and comfort of occupants.
Light utilisation, percent: This is the percentage of light emitted from the luminaire that illuminates a specified area. Light utilisation of luminaires needs to be calculated for each application by the lighting installation designer to ensure optimum selection of luminaires. (Photometric data for luminaires can be obtained from the manufacturer.)
Lamp life, hours: The rated lamp life of lamps is generally based on the average life of a sample of lamps burning under controlled conditions. It gives the number of burning hours at which 50% of the lamps in the sample have burnt out.
Glare: A condition of vision that is caused by luminance (brightness) that exceeds the luminance to which the eyes are adapted and that causes annoyance or discomfort or reduction in visual performance and vision.
Note: Lighting installations that appear to be ‘bright and sparkling’ could be an indication of excessive glare and may be detrimental to the performance and comfort of occupants.
Luminaire Categories
Some of the main luminaire categories are:
Domestic/decorative luminaires
For general and task lighting in homes, hotels, etc, where the aesthetic appearance of the lamp should blend with the interior décor to create an appealing environment.
Commercial luminaires
For lighting in shops, offices, factories and other work places where the light distribution needs to enable occupants to perform their tasks effectively.
Industrial luminaires
For lighting in industrial plants, manufacturing areas and mines where adverse conditions may occur.
Outdoor luminaires
Street lights, flood lights, garden lights, security lights, etc.
Luminaire Performance
The lighting performance of luminaires is of utmost importance for energy efficient operation and the creation of optimum lighting conditions in their specific applications. The effective utilisation of luminaires can only be determined through appropriate lighting installation design for the luminaires on offer. Suppliers and lighting specialists should be consulted for such designs.
With the introduction of compulsory Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for electrical appliances, performance requirements for luminaires are also being developed by regulatory authorities. A perception has been created that lumen/W is an adequate measure to set minimum energy performance requirements for luminaires thereby negating the importance of photometric distribution of luminaires designed for specific applications. This over-simplification of luminaire performance based on lumen/W may lead to selection/approval of sub-standard luminaires in favour of photometrically well-designed luminaires.
Users are therefore strongly advised to obtain reliable photometric distribution data and application design from reliable lighting design specialists
With the introduction of compulsory Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for electrical appliances, performance requirements for luminaires are also being developed by regulatory authorities. A perception has been created that lumen/W is an adequate measure to set minimum energy performance requirements for luminaires thereby negating the importance of photometric distribution of luminaires designed for specific applications. This over-simplification of luminaire performance based on lumen/W may lead to selection/approval of sub-standard luminaires in favour of photometrically well-designed luminaires.
Users are therefore strongly advised to obtain reliable photometric distribution data and application design from reliable lighting design specialists
Retro-Fit of existing installations
In recent times, energy-saving has been the main driver to retro-fit existing installations with lamps of higher
efficacy. For luminaires with reflector systems and/or diffusers or lenses, any lamp-type change will significantly
affect the resulting light distribution and may not meet light levels, uniformity and glare requirements. For more
information, see the requirements of SANS 10114-1 Interior Lighting – Part 1: Artificial lighting of interiors.
It is strongly recommended that retro-fit proposals are tested for performance and safety requirements and that luminaires and components are purchased from reputable suppliers. Modifications to existing luminaires render all previous approvals invalid and retro-fit luminaires should comply with the relevant compulsory specification. This has become the responsibility of the electrical contractor doing the modification.
It is strongly recommended that retro-fit proposals are tested for performance and safety requirements and that luminaires and components are purchased from reputable suppliers. Modifications to existing luminaires render all previous approvals invalid and retro-fit luminaires should comply with the relevant compulsory specification. This has become the responsibility of the electrical contractor doing the modification.
Compulsory specifications
for luminaires and lighting products
VC8055: Electrical and Electronic apparatus.
The following safety standards are compulsory by reference in VC8055 to the following safety standards:
The following safety standards are compulsory by reference in VC8055 to the following safety standards:
Various other standards for lighting, luminaires, lamps and lighting components are available. Information can be
obtained from suppliers.
SANS 60598-1: Luminaires Part 1: General
requirements and tests.
SANS 60598-2-1: Fixed general purpose luminaires
SANS 60598-2-2: Recessed luminaires.
SANS 60598-2-4: Portable general purpose luminaires.
SANS 60598-2-5: Floodlights.
SANS 60598-2-6: Luminaires with built-in transformers for tungsten filament lamps.
SANS 60598-2-7: Portable luminaires for garden use.
SANS 60598-2-8: Hand lamps.
SANS 60598-2-9: Photo and film luminaires. (nonprofessional)
SANS 60598-2-10: Portable luminaires for children.
SANS 60598-2-11: Aquarium luminaires.
SANS 60598-2-1: Fixed general purpose luminaires
SANS 60598-2-2: Recessed luminaires.
SANS 60598-2-4: Portable general purpose luminaires.
SANS 60598-2-5: Floodlights.
SANS 60598-2-6: Luminaires with built-in transformers for tungsten filament lamps.
SANS 60598-2-7: Portable luminaires for garden use.
SANS 60598-2-8: Hand lamps.
SANS 60598-2-9: Photo and film luminaires. (nonprofessional)
SANS 60598-2-10: Portable luminaires for children.
SANS 60598-2-11: Aquarium luminaires.
SANS 60598-2-12: Mains socket-outlet mounted
nightlights.
SANS 60598-2-13: Ground recessed luminaires
SANS 60598-2-18: Luminaires for swimmingpools and similar applications
SANS 60598-2-19: Air-handling luminaires.
SANS 60598-2-20: Lighting chains.
SANS 60598-2-23: Extra low voltage lighting systems for filament lamps.
SANS 60598-2-24: Luminaires with limited surface temperatures.
SANS 60598-2-25: Luminaires for use in clinical areas of hospitals and health care buildings.
SANS 1464: Luminaires for emergency lighting.
SANS 60570: Electrical supply track systems for luminaires.
SANS 60598-2-13: Ground recessed luminaires
SANS 60598-2-18: Luminaires for swimmingpools and similar applications
SANS 60598-2-19: Air-handling luminaires.
SANS 60598-2-20: Lighting chains.
SANS 60598-2-23: Extra low voltage lighting systems for filament lamps.
SANS 60598-2-24: Luminaires with limited surface temperatures.
SANS 60598-2-25: Luminaires for use in clinical areas of hospitals and health care buildings.
SANS 1464: Luminaires for emergency lighting.
SANS 60570: Electrical supply track systems for luminaires.
Luminaire Safety
Luminaire safety requirements are set to prevent harm to persons or damage to property mainly through fire,
electric shock or burning. Users should be aware of important safety aspects in selecting luminaires, some of
which are listed below:
Luminaires shall be marked with at least the following:
- Manufacturer’s name, mark of origin.
- Lamp type and maximum wattage.
- Rated supply voltage.
- Any precautions for installation and maintenance.
Luminaires shall be one of the following classes:
-
- Class I: Protection relies on basic insulation only and must be provided with a protective earth conductor (line, neutral and earth).
- Class II: Protection relies on basic insulation
with additional double insulation or reinforced
insulation. No provision for protective earthing (line and neutral). Luminaires shall be clearly marked with the symbol:
The basic requirement is that no single failure can result in dangerous voltage becoming exposed so that it might cause an electric shock and that this is achieved without relying on an earthed metal casing. This is usually accomplished, at least in part, by having two layers of insulating material surrounding live parts or by using reinforced insulation such as insulating sleeves, grommets and bushings. - Class III: Luminaires in which protection against electric shock relies on supply at safety extra-low voltage (SELV) and in which voltages higher than those of SELV (<50V) are not generated. Such luminaires shall be clearly marked with the symbol:
- Class O: Luminaires in which protection against electric shock relies upon basic insulation only are not permittedin South Africa.
The basic requirement is that no single failure can result in dangerous voltage becoming exposed so that it might cause an electric shock and that this is achieved without relying on an earthed metal casing. This is usually accomplished, at least in part, by having two layers of insulating material surrounding live parts or by using reinforced insulation such as insulating sleeves, grommets and bushings.
Construction
Examples of poor quality
No insulating plate under the terminal block. Wire insulation stripped back too far.
No insulating plate under the terminal block.
Mechanical strength:
Luminaires shall be so constructed that they adequately protect lamps and internal wiring from impacts and handling during normal use for their application.
Flammable materials:
Covers, shades and similar parts not having an insulation function shall be adequately spaced from any heated part in the luminaire that could raise the material to its ignition temperature.
Adjustment devices:
Joints, hoisting devices and adjusting brackets shall be so constructed that cords or cables are not pressed, clamped or excessively twisted during operation to cause damage.
Luminaires shall be so constructed that they adequately protect lamps and internal wiring from impacts and handling during normal use for their application.
Flammable materials:
Covers, shades and similar parts not having an insulation function shall be adequately spaced from any heated part in the luminaire that could raise the material to its ignition temperature.
Adjustment devices:
Joints, hoisting devices and adjusting brackets shall be so constructed that cords or cables are not pressed, clamped or excessively twisted during operation to cause damage.
Terminals and supply connections:
In portable luminaires of Class I and II and in fixed luminaires of Class I and II that are frequently adjusted, adequate precautions shall be taken to prevent metal parts from becoming live due to a detached wire or screw. This requirement applies to all terminals (including supply terminals).
Insulating linings and sleeves:
These shall be so designed that they are reliably retained in position when switches, lampholders, terminals, wires or similar parts have been mounted.
In portable luminaires of Class I and II and in fixed luminaires of Class I and II that are frequently adjusted, adequate precautions shall be taken to prevent metal parts from becoming live due to a detached wire or screw. This requirement applies to all terminals (including supply terminals).
Insulating linings and sleeves:
These shall be so designed that they are reliably retained in position when switches, lampholders, terminals, wires or similar parts have been mounted.
Components of luminaires
- Replaceable components, such as lamp holders, control gear, capacitors, wiring and terminals, etc, shall comply with the requirements of the relevant SANS or IEC standards
- Ratings should be checked to establish that they suit the conditions that may occur in use.
Internal and external wiring
- Conductor size shall be compatible with the electrical
current experienced in normal use.
- Wiring shall be routed in such a way that damage
to insulation because of high temperatures or
chafing against sharp edges, and screws or rivets
is prevented. Where wiring passes through joints,
raising and lowering devices, telescopic tubes and
similar parts, additional protection may be required.
- Adequate anchorages shall be provided for flexible supply cables or cords.
Examples of poor quality
No gland used to secure cable to fitting.
No grommet on the inside of the nipple.
No grommet on the base of the fitting.
Wires not connected correctly; will short on base.
Provision for earthing
- Class I luminaires shall be provided with an earth terminal to which all accessible metal parts, which may become live in the event of an insulation failure, are permanently and reliably electrically connected.
- The earth connection shall be locked against accidental loosening.
- Earthing terminals shall be of brass or a non-corrosive suitable metal.
- Contact surfaces shall be bare metal.
Protection against electric Shock
- Luminaires shall be so constructed that their live parts are not accessible when the luminaires have been installed
and wired as in normal use, and when they are opened as necessary for replacing lamps or (replaceable) starters
even if the operation cannot be achieved by hand.
- Basic insulated parts shall not be used on the outer surface of the luminaire without appropriate protection against accidental contact.
Thermal control
- Under conditions representing normal service, no part
of a luminaire (including the lamp), the supply wiring
within the luminaire, or the mounting surface shall
attain a temperature that would impair safety.
- Parts intended to be touched, handled, adjusted or
gripped by hand while the luminaire is at operating
temperature, shall not be too hot for the purpose.
- Luminaires shall not cause excessive heating of lighted objects.
Who polices the lighting industry in South Africa?
- The Illumination Engineering Society of South Africa (IESSA) represents the interests of the South African lighting industry.
- The South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) sets the national standards.
- The National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) is mandated to set compulsory specifications and
carry out surveillance and compliance monitoring against these specifications.
- The Safehouse Association’s Peer Review Process supports member self-compliance in addition to regulatory requirements, to enhance the compliance of Safehouse members’ products. This process applies third-party surveillance testing to confirm detected non-compliances and to effectively initiate corrective action by the supplier.
Locally manufactured luminaires
This guide covers luminaires in general. Most decorative luminaires are imported but a wide range of decorative,
commercial, industrial and luminaires for outdoor lighting are manufactured in South Africa. Reputable local
manufacturers make a full range of luminaires and many manufacturers specialise in photometric design to provide
optimal light distribution options for various applications.
Examples of substandard luminaires being sold in South Africa
- For commercial, industrial, floodlights and road lighting luminaires, reliable photometric data should be available. If data cannot be provided, one can
almost assume substandard performance. This
particularly applies to retro-fitted luminaires.
- Inferior quality of luminaire construction such as
floppy luminaire bodies and poor finishing.
- Flammable materials used in construction, and terminal blocks.
- Inadequate protection against electric shock.
- Poor earthing of accessible metal parts.
- Inadequate protection of wiring in doubleinsulated
luminaires.
- Use of substandard components in luminaires.
LED Lighting: a brief overview
A relatively new technology, LED lighting is fertile ground for unscrupulous and opportunistic suppliers to circumvent standards and compulsory specifications by making irrational performance claims – mostly around lifespan and lumen maintenance -, aspects that are difficult and costly to verify due to ineffective regulatory control measures and lack of conformity assessment capacity.
Some facts
Compulsory specifications VC9109 and
VC9110 have been developed for the
performance and safety of general service
lamps (GSLs) and became effective from
May 2024.
Some consequences
- The specifications VC9109 and VC9110 will physically ban
the sale of compact fluorescent lamps as the light output
requirements cannot be achieved with CFL technology.
- The technology of an LED lamp and its heat-generation
encourage shortcuts that compromise insulation in favour of
heat dissipation – a safety risk to users.
- Plastic parts are a manufacturer’s cost-saving opportunity.
Inferior material will affect heat- and flame-resistance.
- The low volume of certified testing of LED lamps in South Africa does not allow much credible reference to be made to local testing and regulatory authorities that will comfort buyers and specifiers.
About Safehouse
Safehouse is a non-profit organisation that protects South African businesses and people from preventable harm caused by unsafe electrical products and services.
We’re a voluntary group of electrical industry stalwarts, technical experts and leaders of our respective businesses and fields.We believe it’s our civic and commercial duty to protect our industry and fellow South Africans from suppliers of unsafe electrical products and services.
We work to eradicate dangerous products from the market, to make electrical safety information understandable and accessible and to hold one another, and our industry, to
the highest standards of excellence.
Safehouse members have signed a code of conduct that commits them to dealing only in safe electrical products and to responsible behaviour.
If you have doubts about a particular product or service, contact Safehouse for guidance. info@safehousesa.co.za
Basic lighting concepts
Light output, lumen (lm): The total amount of light
emitted from a luminaire or light source.
Illumination, lux (lx): The amount of light incident on a surface per unit surface area.
Lamp efficacy, lumen/Watt (W): The amount of light emitted from a bare lamp (lm) divided by the input electrical power (W).
Luminaire efficiency, percent or lm/input W: This is the light emitted from the luminaire divided by the light emitted from the bare lamp(s) used in the luminaire. For luminaires with non-replaceable light sources, for example, LED modules, the efficiency of the luminaire is expressed in lm/input W.
When comparing luminaires, their efficiency values could be misleading as these depend on the light distribution of each luminaire. Efficiency values should only be used to compare luminaires with similar light intensity distributions.
Illumination, lux (lx): The amount of light incident on a surface per unit surface area.
Lamp efficacy, lumen/Watt (W): The amount of light emitted from a bare lamp (lm) divided by the input electrical power (W).
Luminaire efficiency, percent or lm/input W: This is the light emitted from the luminaire divided by the light emitted from the bare lamp(s) used in the luminaire. For luminaires with non-replaceable light sources, for example, LED modules, the efficiency of the luminaire is expressed in lm/input W.
When comparing luminaires, their efficiency values could be misleading as these depend on the light distribution of each luminaire. Efficiency values should only be used to compare luminaires with similar light intensity distributions.
