Sparks Electrical News February 2020

LIGHTING

21

Do all lights need an LOA? A current question that Spazio Lighting receives from profes- sional consultants is, "Do all light fittings require a LOA (Let- ter of Authority)?" The answer is yes they do; each and every complete light fitting needs to have an LOA. It does not matter if the products are imported or locally manufac- tured, if the products are sold by a shop or by a wholesaler, or even if they are custom-made, they all require an LOA. An LOA is proof that the luminaires meets the safety compliance as set out by the National Regulatory Body, also known as the NRCS. Thus, each product shall have a full test report to the prescribed standard (IEC 60598), and such test report shall not be older than three years. This type of test re-

normally do not comply because they did not go through the proper testing procedures. LOAs for imported products are policed at customs and if a product does not have an LOA in place, the product is blocked and importa- tion is refused. Locally manufactured products are unfortunately not controlled and are often illegal. Spazio often finds illegal products on the market with many illegal features which are sold under the pretence of being locally manufac- tured products. It is therefore important to ensure that you buy light fittings from reputable shops and wholesalers that supply goods with the necessary documentation in place.

the standard, the measurement results and describe the product in full. Why is it so important to have an LOA in place? Many luminaires are imported and manufactured using inferior material or compo- nents, which are not only cheap but will also most likely fail prema- turely and end up costing the consumer more money. Furthermore, non-compliant fittings might also be dangerous and can be regarded as a health and safety risk. Testing compliance and LOA applications ensure that the correct and approved components that have passed testing are used in the luminaires and that the fitting carries a valid warranty. Custom-made and locally manufactured products must have an LOA and unfortunately, in most cases, these are the products that

port will record each clause of

Enquiries: +27 (0)11 555 5555

Lighting trends to switch you on

DECOREX AFRICA’S TREND REPORT for 2020 gives us a teasing glimpse of what to expect from Decorex Durban, Cape Town and Joburg 2020, where designers and manufacturers showcase all the latest trends, concepts and products that will guide and inspire us. The broad themes emphasised in the report will be featured in the Mobelli Furni- ture + Living Trend House – Urban Living by Design, Insta-Interiors, the Trend Kitchen by Cosentino and Trend Installations as well as pop-up restaurants, ca- fés and feature areas at each show. Make a special note to visit the Lighting by Design Project, which will showcase exciting lighting trends at all three shows. Creative director, Anita Bloom, who authored the report, ran her own design studio, Just Bloom De- signs, before moving to Inspire Trade Expo for four years and then joining the Decorex Africa team, and her vast experience in graphic design and exhibition curation perfectly positions her to identify and share shifting design and décor trends. When it comes to how we’ll be illuminating our homes, Bloom says we’ll be putting the strict mini- malism of Scandinavian design behind us. “We’re moving towards softer, more nature-inspired inte- riors and correspondingly gentle illumination,” she reveals. “Think a multitude of hanging lights, floor lamps, table lamps, candles and lanterns to add a more sensual touch to our homes and moderate the stark lighting of Scandi design. In fact, there’s a move towards more natural light and a less-is-more approach to lighting solutions. Fireplaces are back and they bring flickering light and undeniable cosi- ness to living rooms.” Another growing trend to be aware of is the use of paper lamps – Asian-inspired light fixtures that add an eclectic touch to any décor. Japadi Style (a blend of Scandi and traditional Japanese details), along with Wabi Sabi (the idea that imperfection is beautiful and life is impermanent) permeate light- ing design, with cylinders, ovals and globes in white or neutral colours illuminating softened interiors. “Whether oversized, used singly or in bunches, these lights are sure to magically transform rooms,” says Bloom. Rounded and organic shapes will dominate when it comes to lighting – and the circle will be the most important (but by no means only) geometric shape that will influence designers in 2020. The most sig- nificant trend, however, is towards creating essential shapes that can adapt to any space, lasting as differ- ent styles come and go. Another trend to watch is the resurgence of neon – think names, phrases and slogans up in lights or strategic blocks of colour. “Done well, neon features read like modern art installations. You can opt for a subtle glow or the full ‘shock and awe’ effect,” says Bloom.

Enquiries: decorexinfo@reedexpoafrica.co.za

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

FEBRUARY 2020