IS 3217 Emergency Lighting Assessments Ireland

IS 3217:2023 is the current Irish Standard for emergency lighting installations. Updated in 2023, it sets requirements for the design, installation, commissioning, testing, and maintenance of emergency lighting systems in buildings. It replaces the previous IS 3217:2013 edition and introduces significant changes including a risk assessment-based approach to design.

The 2023 edition introduces a risk assessment-based approach to emergency lighting design, updated requirements for testing and maintenance, enhanced provisions for standby lighting, and closer alignment with EN 1838 and other European standards. Buildings with systems designed to the previous edition should be reviewed against the updated standard.

IS 3217:2023 requires monthly functional tests (short duration activation to verify operation) and annual full-duration tests (operating on battery for the rated period to verify capacity). All tests must be recorded in a logbook. Additional testing may be required after modifications or repairs.

EN 1838 requires a minimum of 1 lux at floor level along the centre line of an escape route, with a minimum of 0.5 lux along the central band covering at least half the route width. Higher levels are required at safety equipment locations, fire alarm call points, and changes of direction.

Most commercial, industrial, public, and multi-occupancy residential buildings require emergency lighting. It is required along escape routes, at exit doors, at changes of direction, at stairways, near fire alarm call points, at firefighting equipment locations, and in any area larger than 60 square metres. A risk assessment determines the specific requirements for your building.

Escape route lighting provides illumination along defined escape routes to enable safe evacuation. Anti-panic area lighting provides illumination in large open areas (over 60 square metres) to prevent panic and enable occupants to reach an escape route safely. Both types have specific illuminance and uniformity requirements under EN 1838.

Yes. We have extensive experience assessing emergency lighting in nursing homes, hospitals, and designated centres where reliable emergency lighting is particularly critical due to the vulnerability of occupants. Healthcare facilities often have enhanced requirements due to their occupancy risk profile.

Our assessment report will identify all non-conformances, categorised by severity, with clear recommendations and suggested timelines for remediation. Common issues include inadequate coverage, insufficient lux levels, failed duration tests, and incomplete testing records. We provide guidance on prioritising improvements.

Our primary service is assessment and audit of existing emergency lighting installations. However, we can provide design guidance and review proposed designs against IS 3217:2023 requirements. For new installations, we recommend working with a qualified emergency lighting designer and then having Phoenix STS independently assess the completed installation.

Phoenix STS provides emergency lighting assessments across all 26 counties in Ireland. Our midlands base gives us efficient access to all parts of the country, and our pricing includes all travel costs.