Commercial Outdoor Lighting System for Business Security and Safety

This commercial property needed a comprehensive outdoor lighting solution that would provide security, improve safety for visitors and staff, and create an inviting atmosphere for customers arriving at their premises.

After conducting a thorough site assessment, we determined that a combination of bollard lights and eyelid wall lights would offer the perfect balance of functionality and aesthetics. We planned the installation carefully to ensure proper coverage throughout the car park while avoiding light pollution and unnecessary energy consumption.

The project began with the installation of six square ‘eyelid’ style exterior wall lights. Two were positioned on the front fence near the portable cabins, two on the side fence in the same area, and two on the front of the main building near the entrance. These lights provide broad illumination for the immediate approach to the building, creating a welcoming atmosphere while highlighting architectural features.

To properly light the car park pathways, we installed thirteen bollard lights strategically placed along both sides of the parking area. Seven bollard lights were positioned along the left hedgerow (when facing the building), and six along the right hedgerow. This symmetrical arrangement ensures even light distribution and creates a professional, orderly appearance.

The installation process required careful planning and execution. For the bollard lights, we prepared 300mm x 300mm concrete pads with 32mm conduit routed through the centre. This provides a solid foundation for each light while allowing for clean cable routing, preventing future maintenance issues and ensuring stability in all weather conditions.

For the left-side bollards and eyelid lights, we routed cables through appropriate pathways. The eyelid light cables were contained in conduit and twin and earth cabling along the wall above the entrance and office areas. For the bollard lights on the left side, we dug a trench and installed steel wire armoured (SWA) cabling with junction boxes below the concrete slabs.

The right-side bollard lights required a different approach due to their distance from the main building. We channelled cables into the ground across the residential pathway at an appropriate depth, filling the channel with cold-lay tarmac upon completion for a seamless finish. These lights draw power from an existing distribution box that currently supplies the main entrance sign.

To maximise energy efficiency and ease of operation, we installed a sophisticated control system that combines photocells and timers. The photocells detect ambient light levels, automatically activating the lights at dusk and turning them off at dawn. The timers provide additional control, allowing the client to set specific operating hours based on business needs. This intelligent control system not only conserves energy but also reduces maintenance requirements.

As part of the same project, we replaced a damaged photocell sensor controlling the car park entrance sign light. The previous sensor had been rendered ineffective after being painted over, causing it to incorrectly sense darkness. This simple but important fix restored proper functionality to the existing lighting.

We also installed a 50W LED flood light centrally over the ‘Exit’ door, controlled by a daylight sensor with an override switch near the till area. The cabling for this light was neatly contained within 20mm white conduit for a clean, professional appearance.

Throughout the project, we maintained strict adherence to all relevant electrical regulations and safety standards. Upon completion, we thoroughly tested all installations to ensure they were functioning correctly and safely. The client now enjoys a well-lit exterior space that enhances security, improves safety for visitors and staff, and creates an inviting atmosphere that reflects positively on their business.

This comprehensive lighting solution transforms the property after dark, creating distinct pathways and highlighting key areas. The strategic placement of different light types accommodates the varied needs of different zones while maintaining a cohesive visual identity. The automated control systems ensure the lights operate only when needed, optimising energy usage and reducing running costs for the business.