NCJ Number
85317
Date Published
1982
Length
10 pages
Annotation
Standards for the proper lighting of various types of areas for safety and security purposes have been established as authoritative and can be used in civil trials as criteria to establish negligence.
Abstract
One of the primary purposes of outdoor lighting at a facility is perimeter security. When a perimeter is illuminated, it is not unusual to find that the lighting is insufficient for security, because (1) it does not generate enough footcandle power to meet standards; (2) light sources are improperly spaced; and (3) light sources are aimed incorrectly. There are published minimum standards for light intensity levels at vulnerable facilities and for various locations within those facilities. These standards should be followed if perimeter lighting is to fulfill its purpose. The spacing of lighting is directly related to shadowing, glare, and 'dead' spots. Published standards also address light spacing, and as a general rule, the beam patterns of adjoining light sources should overlap. Lights should also be aimed correctly if they are to fulfill their purpose. Many businesses aim their lights to make the buildings aesthetically pleasing without regard for illuminating the grounds for the purposes of safety and security. There are a number of published lighting standards, two of which are authoritative: the United States Army Physical Security Manual (MF 19-30) and the standards in two handbooks published by the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America. Tabular data are provided for footcandles for vehicle roadways and pedestrian walkways, and nine references are listed.