Posted on: 27 - 8 - 2019
What are Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) cables?
Selecting the right light fixture comes with a lot of important considerations - the lumen output, mounting options, IP rating (see our previous blog post on the important of IP ratings here) - just to name a few!
Another important factor to consider is the type of internal cabling used in your potential fixtures. Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) cabling is considered a safer choice, due to its lack of halogen content, over the more common option of Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) cables.
Although the use of PVC cables is prevalent in the electrical industry, there is increasing pressure to move away from PVC, in favour of LSZH cabling.
What are the differences between LZSH and PVC cabling?
As the name suggests, LSZH cables contain no halogen content, whereas PVC does. Halogens are powerful oxidisers and are highly reactive. In the event of a building fire, halogens will emit thick, black smoke, reducing visibility and therefore posing safety concerns in evacuation procedures.
Additionally, the fumes halogens generate are very toxic. Exposure to halogen's smoke and fumes in highly concentrated situations can be fatal.
If halogens combine with any moisture or water, this will form hydrogen chloride (HCI), which is toxic and corrosive. Not only is this harmful to humans, this can cause significant property damage to the affected area.
By using LSZH instead of PVC, these risks are minimised. Energylight's Revalo, Evala, Viline and Vifo troffers are all Red List compliant.
See more information on our troffers here.
What are Red List Free products?
The Red List was created by the International Living Future Institute, as part of their Living Building Challenge (LBC). The LBC is a sustainable building program, encouraging the use of non-harmful building materials.
The Red List identifies chemicals commonly used in building materials, which have harmful impacts on the environment. A 'Red List Free' product's components therefore have no listed chemicals in its ingredient breakdown.
Energylight's troffer range are all Red List Free fittings, that perform well optically and aesthetically.
For custom linear extrusions, Energyline are able to fulfil Red List Free requests for their line of fittings.
Feel free to get in touch with our team of experts to discuss how we can help you deliver your unique project needs.
Back to Blog