Alabama Contractors License Practice Exam

Automatic lighting shutoff is mandatory for buildings larger than how many square feet?

1. 2,000

2. 5,000

3. 10,000

4. 15,000

The correct answer is: 5,000

The requirement for automatic lighting shutoff systems is a critical aspect of energy efficiency regulations and building codes. In Alabama, buildings that exceed 5,000 square feet are mandated to have these systems in place. The rationale behind this regulation is to help conserve energy and reduce operational costs, as larger buildings often have greater energy consumption due to extensive lighting needs. By implementing automatic shutoff controls, which can include timers or occupancy sensors, the unnecessary use of artificial lighting can be minimized, especially in areas that may not be used continuously. This regulation acknowledges that as the size of a building increases, so too does the potential for wasted energy if lighting systems are not managed efficiently. Therefore, the threshold set at 5,000 square feet effectively addresses the need for sustainable building practices in larger structures.