ISA Addresses ASHRAE Committee on Signage Regulations
On January 26, ISA’s Bill Dundas addressed the Lighting Subcommittee of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) at its Winter Conference meeting in Dallas, Texas to ensure that illuminated signs are treated realistically and fairly.
Mr. Dundas provided information to support formal proposals previously submitted by ISA for revisions to the ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1. This standard incorporates various energy requirements applicable to electrical and HVAC systems installed in new, non-residential buildings. Specific sections of the latest, 2010 standard require exterior lighting power, including power for advertising and directional signs, to be reduced by a minimum of 30 percent after businesses close for the day and during overnight hours.
Because the 90.1 Standard is adopted by reference into the International Building Code, as well as into local jurisdictions’ building codes, the aim of ISA’s efforts is to ensure that utilization of electric signs will not be adversely impacted. Reflected in the proposals submitted to ASHRAE in August 2012, ISA’s position generally holds that power reduction rules appropriate for control of building lighting systems are not appropriate for extension to electric signs.
As it evaluates numerous changes proposed for incorporation into the ASHRAE 90.1-2013 Standard, ASHRAE currently is analyzing ISA’s proposals in light of the additional information provided during the January 26 meeting. As further developments occur, ISA will continue to keep members and other stakeholders informed. For further information, contact Bill Dundas.
