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May 2023
Occupancy Sensors
Who Left All the Lights On In Here?
Energy loves to light up our lives – and yearns to be used efficiently, not wasted.
Complying with local energy codes can help us make sure we’re deserving of all the watts entrusted to us. Whether at home, or any of the places in between, lighting controls (and especially occupancy sensors) can help us achieve our energy goals.
Example: In office spaces, NYC’s code describes where occupancy sensors may turn on lights:
- Restrooms and open office areas – and shall turn off the lights after 15 mintues of inactivity.
- Corridors, stairways, and lobbies – and shall turn the lights to 50% after 15 minutes of inactivity.
For these other areas in an example office, the occupancy sensors shall again turn off the lights after 15 minutes, but a person must activate them manually to turn them on, via a wall switch:
- Conference, meeting, training, copy, janitor, storage, lounge, breakroom, enclosed office, and any other enclosed space 300 square feet or less. (All requirements per NYCECC C405.2.1)
Reach out to RDA to find out about lighting controls benefits and options for your new or existing systems.