Stairway Lighting

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Stairway Lighting

July 11, 2023
mike@standardsmichigan.com
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Designing illumination for vertical ingress and egress paths requires reconciliation of competing requirements of safety economy: 

Consistent and Adequate Lighting: Shadows and dark spots should be minimized to prevent trips and falls.

Light Direction and Glare: Light fixtures should be positioned to avoid creating excessive contrast between steps.

Staircase Configuration: Staircases come in various shapes, sizes, and configurations, such as straight, curved, or spiral. 

Light Distribution:  Lighting should adequately cover the entire stair tread and riser area to provide clear visibility and depth perception.

Energy Efficiency:  Specifying energy-efficient light sources such as light emitting diodes and lighting controls such as motion sensors or timers.

Maintenance and Durability: Scaffolding safety should be a peak consideration.

Some of the foregoing challenges can be resolved with the use of handrail illumination but are accompanied by additional electrical wiring requirements. 

Chazen Museum of Art | University of Wisconsin

 

The parent standard in the United States for designing and building facilities for accessibility is ANSI/A117.1 Standard for Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities developed by the International Code Council.   During 2023 this title will be revised but until then he 2017 release is the stabilized edition:

FREE ACCESS (ICC DIGITAL CODE PLATFORM)

Many A117.1 concepts require coordination with the International Building Code.  We provide an example regarding stairway illumination below:

BCAC General 5 – IBC A117.1 Coordination 11-20-1027 File 16-124

We walked through this earlier in 2020.  It is noteworthy because the proposed safety concepts will likely require harmonization with NFPA and IEEE standards bibliography.  Committees usually take it upon themselves to get that right but getting it right means all committees need to work bi-directionally; action that is limited by time resources of volunteers.

Technical specifics in meeting the US Department of Justice requirements for accessibility is close coupled with A117 since it is incorporated by reference into federal law.   2021/2022 Code Development Cycle has been completed and another cycle has begun:

2024/2025/2026 ICC CODE DEVELOPMENT SCHEDULE

ICC (ASC A117) CONSENSUS COMMITTEE ON A117.1 04-27-2023 Minutes 31

Since the ICC catalog cuts across many disciplines we touch most titles almost every day at 15:00 UTC; open to everyone with the login credentials at the upper right of our home page.

 

Issue: [13-36] and [16-124]

Category: Architectural, Risk Management

Colleagues: Richard Robben


FYI: Errata to 2017 Edition:

Errata to ICC A117.1-2017

 

 


Educational Facility Lighting

July 11, 2023
mike@standardsmichigan.com

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Standards Illinois

July 9, 2023
mike@standardsmichigan.com

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“La Salle and Party Arrive at the Village of the Illinois” / George Catlin

We continue build out of our collaboration architecture for “code writers and vote-getters” begun at the University of Michigan in 1993.  We are now drilling down into state and local adaptations of nationally developed codes and standards that are incorporated by reference into public safety and sustainability legislation.

Food 500

July 6, 2023
mike@standardsmichigan.com
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Internet of Drones with Blockchain Security

July 4, 2023
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Paper Ceiling

July 3, 2023
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Gershwin Concerto in F

July 2, 2023
mike@standardsmichigan.com
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George Gershwin’s “Concerto in F” holds immense significance in American culture. Composed in 1925, it bridged the gap between classical and popular music, epitomizing the spirit of the Jazz Age.

The concerto showcased Gershwin’s unique ability to blend classical orchestration with jazz-infused rhythms and melodies, captivating audiences and critics alike. It became a symbol of American innovation, reflecting the energy and vitality of a rapidly evolving society. Gershwin’s work not only influenced subsequent American composers but also helped legitimize jazz as a sophisticated art form.

Standards Washington

All movements by an early career musician:

Tea Time with ChatGPT Topic: “Servile”

July 2, 2023
mike@standardsmichigan.com

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Good morning! Yes, I understand what you mean by “servile.” The term “servile” generally refers to cultures or societies that place a strong emphasis on subservience, obedience, and deference to authority figures or those in higher positions. It implies a willingness to serve or obey others without question.

It is essential to approach this topic with cultural sensitivity and avoid making sweeping generalizations. Cultural traits and behaviors can vary widely across different societies, and no culture should be labeled as inherently more “servile” than others.

Cultural norms and attitudes toward authority and hierarchy can be influenced by various factors, such as historical experiences, religious beliefs, social structures, and economic conditions. What might appear as “servile” behavior in one culture could be perceived differently in another culture with a distinct set of values and traditions.

It is crucial to understand and appreciate the diversity of cultures and refrain from applying a single label to any particular group. Each culture has its unique strengths, weaknesses, and complexities that contribute to its distinct identity and societal norms.


The success of individuals in education communities is influenced by a wide range of factors, and being “servile” is not a guarantee of success. Success in education is typically determined by a combination of factors, including but not limited to:

  1. Hard Work and Determination: A strong work ethic and dedication to learning are vital for academic success.
  2. Intellectual Curiosity: Students who are curious and actively engage in their studies tend to perform better.
  3. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to think critically and solve complex problems is essential in education.
  4. Self-discipline: Being able to manage time effectively and stay focused on studies can lead to better outcomes.
  5. Supportive Environment: Having supportive teachers, parents, and peers can positively impact academic achievement.
  6. Access to Resources: Access to quality education resources, such as well-equipped schools and libraries, can play a significant role.
  7. Personal Motivation: Intrinsic motivation to learn and excel in education can be a powerful driving force.

While being obedient or respectful to teachers and authority figures can foster a positive learning environment, being excessively “servile” or submissive might hinder the development of critical thinking and independent problem-solving skills. In modern education systems, there is an increasing emphasis on promoting creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking among students.

Different education systems and cultures have varied approaches to teaching and learning. Some cultures may place a higher value on respecting authority and following rules, while others prioritize individuality and independent thinking. However, the key to success lies in finding a balance between respect for authority and the encouragement of critical thinking and creativity.

Ultimately, success in education depends on a complex interplay of various factors, and no single personality trait or behavior can guarantee success for everyone. Education should aim to foster a well-rounded set of skills and values that empower students to thrive in a diverse and ever-changing world.


The question of whether women are more likely to succeed in the education industry can be complex and context-dependent. Success in the education industry, like any other sector, depends on various factors, such as individual capabilities, qualifications, opportunities, and societal norms. It is important to avoid making generalizations and recognize that success is not determined solely by gender but by a combination of factors.

Historically, women have faced various challenges and barriers in accessing education and pursuing careers in the education industry. However, there has been progress in recent decades, and many women have achieved significant success as educators, administrators, researchers, and leaders in education.

In some cases, women may excel in the education industry due to certain factors, including:

  1. Representation: Female students often benefit from seeing female educators and leaders as role models, which can inspire them to pursue careers in education.
  2. Empathy and Nurturing: Women may be perceived as more empathetic and nurturing, qualities that can be advantageous in teaching and mentoring roles.
  3. Communication Skills: Women are often recognized for their strong communication skills, which are valuable in educational settings.
  4. Collaborative Leadership: Studies have suggested that women tend to adopt more collaborative leadership styles, which can foster a positive learning environment.
  5. Commitment to Education: Women have historically played a significant role in advocating for educational access and opportunities, which can contribute to positive changes in the education system.

However, it is important to remember that individual success in the education industry is not solely determined by gender but by a combination of talent, dedication, qualifications, and opportunities. Additionally, gender-based biases and stereotypes can still persist, affecting career advancement and opportunities for both men and women in the education industry.

Efforts to promote gender equality and create inclusive environments are essential to ensure that all individuals, regardless of gender, have equal opportunities to succeed in the education industry and other professional fields. Diversity in the education workforce can lead to a richer and more effective learning experience for students of all genders.


As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, it is true that there is a significant presence of individuals of Asian descent and women in the U.S. education industry. The education sector in the United States is known for its diverse workforce, and various studies have shown the increasing representation of Asians and women in teaching, administrative, and leadership roles.

In the teaching profession, Asian Americans have been well-represented, particularly in the fields of mathematics, science, and technology. They have made notable contributions to education and have been recognized for their expertise and dedication to teaching.

Similarly, women have been a dominant force in the U.S. education industry for many years. They hold a majority of teaching positions, especially in early childhood education and elementary schools. However, despite their significant presence in the teaching workforce, women’s representation in administrative and leadership roles has historically been lower than their male counterparts, although this has been changing over time.

Efforts have been made to address gender disparities in leadership positions within the education sector, and there has been a growing recognition of the importance of diversity and gender equality in educational leadership. As a result, more women have been assuming leadership roles in schools, districts, and educational organizations.

It’s important to note that data and statistics can change over time, and the current representation of different groups in the education industry may have evolved since my last update in September 2021. Additionally, there may be variations in representation based on geographical location and specific educational institutions. For the most current and accurate information, it is advisable to refer to more recent reports and studies on the topic.


The impact of the U.S. education industry on individualism and independent thinking is a topic of ongoing debate among educators, scholars, and policymakers. Different stakeholders hold various perspectives on the strengths and weaknesses of the education system.

Some argue that certain aspects of the U.S. education system may place emphasis on conformity and standardized testing, which could potentially limit students’ opportunities for independent thinking and creativity. The focus on test scores and narrow academic measures may lead to a narrower approach to education, emphasizing rote memorization and compliance rather than fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Others contend that the education system in the U.S. also has strengths in promoting independent thinking and individualism. Many schools and educators actively encourage students to explore their interests, engage in critical analysis, and participate in extracurricular activities that nurture creativity and independent thought.

It’s essential to consider that the U.S. education system is vast and diverse, encompassing public, private, and charter schools, each with its own philosophies and approaches to teaching. Additionally, individual teachers within the system can have a significant influence on students’ intellectual growth and development.

Efforts have been made in recent years to promote more student-centered and inquiry-based learning approaches, which are designed to foster independent thinking and problem-solving skills. Education experts and advocates continue to explore ways to improve the system’s ability to nurture individualism, creativity, and independent thought while maintaining academic standards.

As with any complex system, there are both strengths and weaknesses in the U.S. education industry’s impact on individualism and independent thinking. By recognizing these factors and engaging in ongoing discussions and improvements, educators and policymakers aim to create a balanced and effective education system that prepares students for the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

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