WHAT PRICE DO I HAVE TO PAY TO PROTECT ELV AND LV DOWNLIGHTS?

As little as possible…. But, give full consideration to ALL of these points:

· Will the protection offered meet one of options a, or b, or c, in AS/NZS 3000:2007 clause 4.5.2.3 including all of the qualifying paragraphs?

· What does the product's P.O.S. material claim that it will do? And, do the installation instructions show protection against all of the common situations that the downlight can be subjected to, including future loose insulation, leaves, vermin, debris, etc?

· Does the product offered actually include a genuine en-CLOSURE?

· Is the product made of enduring fire resistant materials?

· What would it take to dislodge the downlight protection?

· Will using the product meet my additional Duty-Of-Care obligations to my client?

· Be aware that if any installation retains fire risk, you are basically insuring your client, carrying the risk of fire for the life of each downlight at your own expense. This leaves your licence & insurance cover and your future at risk. Is there any point paying anything for partial protection of hi-temp fittings, with any retained risk?

· Will the downlight require an expensive heat forward replacement lamp in future to comply with the maximum surface temperatures required by AS/NZS 60598?

HOW CAN I BE SURE THAT I MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE?

· Obviously the quality of the installation depends on workmanship, but you can't expect to achieve that without using trust-worthy products. Sound advice tells you to use only downlight protection products CERTIFIED by an accredited test laboratory to do all that the standard requires. Ask to see the certificate of approval to AS/NZS 3000:2007 Clause 4.5.2.3 with a unique approval number. Comprehensive instructions are vital.

· Finally, if the downlight installation combination that you choose will not open up your client's ceiling zone to the living zone 24/7 causing draughts, conditioned air/energy loss, noise transfer, indoor pollution/insect entry, you are on track for recommendation!