Modern multi-storey car parks may be accessed at any time, day or night, and the lighting design should create an environment in which pedestrians can move safely, security can be maintained, and where drivers can navigate without risking damage to their vehicles.
Effective lighting design in multi-storey car parks is crucial for safety, but energy efficiency must also be considered to help organisations move toward their net-zero targets.
The British Standards Institution (BSI) provides guidelines for lighting systems in multi-storey car parks through BS 5489-1:2020 and BS EN 12464-1:2021 standards. These standards specify the average illuminance levels required for different areas within the car park.
Meeting recommended illuminance levels for the different car park zones helps improve users' safety.
The illumination levels should be adjusted based on natural light conditions to ensure optimal lighting at all times. During daylight hours, the lighting system should complement natural light, reducing the need for artificial illumination. The lighting should provide sufficient illumination at night to maintain safety and security.
To provide consistent levels of light appropriate to use, the recommended illuminance levels for the different areas of the car park are as follows:
These levels ensure the car park is well-lit, enhancing visibility and safety for drivers and pedestrians.
One of the major challenges when designing the lighting system for a car park is to accommodate the change in conditions for drivers as they enter. Driver’s eyes can take time to adapt to the lower light conditions, so the entry area should be prioritised to protect other users.
Adequate lighting is essential for pedestrian safety, especially in areas such as staircases, ramps, and walkways. Proper illumination helps prevent accidents and ensures pedestrians can safely navigate the car park.
Well-lit areas deter criminal activities and provide a sense of security for users. Lighting should be designed to eliminate dark spots and shadows that may offer opportunities for thieves or vandals to hide.
Energy-efficient lighting solutions, such as LED lights, should be used to minimise energy consumption and reduce operational costs. High-efficiency lighting also contributes to environmental sustainability.
Automatic lighting controls are essential for optimising energy efficiency and adapting to changing conditions. These controls can adjust illumination levels based on natural light availability, reducing energy consumption during daylight hours. Smart controls can also provide dimming, group control, and remote monitoring capabilities, further enhancing the efficiency and flexibility of the lighting system.
Lighting systems should be easy to maintain and durable to withstand the harsh conditions of a car park environment. Robust luminaires with high IK ratings and IP65 ratings are recommended.
The layout of the lighting system is crucial for achieving uniform illumination and minimising glare. Luminaires should be strategically placed to ensure even distribution of light across the entire car park and luminaire selection should be robust to withstand potential impacts. The positioning of luminaires should highlight potential hazards identified during the planning process, such as barriers, ramps, and pillars.
For help and advice about Whitecroft lighting solutions for multi-storey car parks, please contact one of our outdoor lighting specialists today.
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