Are Commercial Security Lighting Solutions Worth the Money?
Investing in indoor and outdoor security lighting is a relatively low-cost way to protect your team, your facility, and guard your peace of mind. If you’re expanding your facility, updating an older system, or planning a new development, don’t let security lighting be an afterthought.
What Is Commercial Exterior Security Lighting?
Commercial security lighting systems combine high-output fixtures, strategic placement, and automation to deter crime, improve employee safety, and make security footage more useful at night or in low-light conditions.
Like any commercial lighting system, security lighting is most effective when it is designed and installed as a comprehensive solution, rather than an ad hoc assemblage of fixtures. The design should account for:
A comprehensive field of vision
Automated functionality, usually through low-light sensors
High lumen output (typically 4,000 lumens for entryways and 20,000 lumens or more for perimeter coverage
Weather-related issues, with the ability to withstand wind, rain, snow, and extreme temperature changes
Where Commercial Security Lighting Fits In
Security lighting often augments other exterior lighting systems, and the terms are often used interchangeably in some parts of the facility.
Generally, we consider any lighting that augments or enhances the visibility of on-site security cameras, protects a building access point, or otherwise promotes safety a part of a security lighting solution. That includes a wide variety of options, including:
Building entrances
Parking lots
Perimeter fencing
Equipment yards and storage
Loading docks
Walkways
Gate entrances
Features to Consider
One of the most important considerations for choosing a security lighting system is electricity consumption. While appropriate in some applications, systems that only include motion-activated fixtures aren’t always the most secure. In many cases, low-level illumination is more effective than motion sensors for deterring crime, while also providing your team with a safer experience when arriving at or leaving the facility.
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That's where bi-level illumination comes in. Bi-level illumination provides two lighting levels, with the lower setting ideal (10-50% of total brightness) for dawn, dusk, or between motion activations.
When motion is detected, the system brightens to 100% of output. Most systems today include a default bi-level setting, plus other options, such as a daylight sensor, motion hold time, and the ability to automatically identify motion at varying distances and adjust light levels accordingly.
Does Industrial and Commercial Security Lighting Work?
Yes, commercial security lighting is proven to reduce crime, improve security camera footage, lower liability risk, and is more cost-effective than hiring night security staff. When installed correctly and with the right fixtures, security lighting won’t significantly increase your electricity bill, either. Work with an experienced lighting contractor like Keen to design, source, and install the right solution for your needs. For expert security lighting in Traverse City, we’re the top choice.
Your Full-Service Lighting Contractor
Brilliant, energy-efficient security lighting is one small but important part of your facility’s total energy system. We take a ground-up approach to efficiency, identifying meaningful opportunities to reduce waste and lower your energy bill. Contact Keen Technical Solutions to speak with an experienced energy consultant today.