Proper roadway lighting levels provide the illumination required for safe and efficient travel on roads and highways. These lighting levels improve visibility for both drivers and pedestrians. To ensure that roadways have sufficient illumination, there are standards and guidelines set forth by organizations such as the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
This blog explores the importance of adhering to IES standards and the benefits of proper roadway lighting design and installation for safe and efficient travel.
What Are the IES Roadway Lighting Level Guidelines?
The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) is a professional organization that sets standards and guidelines for lighting design. IES roadway lighting levels refers to the amount of illumination required on roadways to ensure safe travel, categorized by four levels – A, B, C, and D. In ANSI/IES RP-8-18 “Design Guide for Roadway Lighting,” the IES provides recommendations for illuminance levels 
for the following five roadway classes:
- Freeways and Highways
- Arterials – major urban roads with high traffic volumes
- Collectors – suburban and rural roads with moderate traffic volumes
- Local roads – streets within residential or commercial areas with low traffic volumes
- Tunnels
Factors That Influence Roadway Lighting Levels
Several factors influence the recommended roadway lighting levels, including the type and classification of the road, traffic volume, speed, pedestrian activity, and the surrounding environment. For example, a high-speed roadway with heavy traffic volume requires more illumination than a local road with low traffic volume. An urban arterial with high pedestrian activity requires more light than a collector road in a rural area.
Another important factor to consider when determining the appropriate lighting levels for roadways is weather conditions. In areas prone to fog, snow, or heavy rain, higher lighting levels may be necessary to improve visibility for drivers. In areas with clear weather conditions, lower light may be sufficient. Proper consideration of weather patterns can help ensure that lighting levels on roadways are adequate and effective in all conditions.
Benefits of Adhering to IES Roadway Illumination Levels
Adhering to IES roadway lighting levels has several benefits, including increased safety for drivers and pedestrians, reduced crime rates, enhanced visibility for drivers, and improved roadway aesthetics.
Additionally, following IES roadway lighting guidelines can also help reduce energy costs and promote sustainability. By ensuring that lighting levels are appropriate for the roadway and its surrounding environment, excess lighting and unnecessary energy consumption can be avoided. This not only saves money but also helps to reduce carbon emissions and promote eco-friendliness.
How to Achieve the Recommended IES Standards
Proper design and installation are essential to achieve the recommended IES lighting levels for roadways. Lighting fixture types and placement are the first critical factors in achieving the necessary illumination levels.
Regular maintenance and cleaning of the lighting fixtures are also necessary to ensure that the recommended lighting levels are maintained. Over time, dirt and debris can reduce the effectiveness of lighting fixtures, leading to lower illumination levels. By implementing a regular maintenance schedule, lighting levels can be maintained, and the need for costly repairs or replacements can be reduced.
Using high-quality lighting products can also guarantee the achievement of recommended IES roadway lighting levels. Solais offers a range of LED roadway lighting fixtures that meet IES standards for all roadway classes. These fixtures are designed to provide maximum illumination while reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs. By working with a trusted lighting supplier like Solais, roadway managers and engineers can make sure their lighting systems meet IES standards and provide optima, energy efficient illumination for drivers and pedestrians alike.
Challenges and Considerations
Roadway managers must consider the economic and environmental impacts associated with lighting installation and maintenance when determining the appropriate lighting levels for roadways. While adhering to IES roadway lighting levels is critical for the safety of drivers and pedestrians, it is also essential to consider the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of lighting solutions.
In addition to cost considerations and environmental impacts, community concerns are another important factor to keep in mind when installing roadway lighting. For example, residents living near roadways may be concerned about light pollution which can disrupt sleep patterns and negatively impact wildlife. To address these concerns, roadway managers can work with lighting experts to select appropriate lighting fixtures and installation methods that minimize light pollution and provide adequate illumination levels for drivers and pedestrians while being sensitive to the needs of the community.
Contact Solais for Your Roadway Lighting Needs
Solais offers a wide range of lighting products that meet the IES roadway lighting standards, and you can reach out to us for more information with the contact info at the bottom of this page.
Check out our other blog for 6 Tips for Effective and Affordable Parking Lot Lighting.