In aviation, ports and major sports venues, lighting is never just about visibility. It underpins safety, operational efficiency, compliance and energy performance. A high mast lighting system is a long-term infrastructure investment, and the outcome depends far more on process than product.
Too many projects begin in the wrong place. They start with a fixture, a budget target or an old specification, rather than asking a fundamental question:
What does this site actually need to achieve?
Below is a structured, proven approach to delivering a successful lighting project, based on years of experience across global installations.
1. Define the Objectives Clearly
Every successful project begins with clarity.
Before discussing wattages or optics, establish:
- What operational activities take place on site
- Which standards apply, for example ICAO Annex 14, EN 13201 or other local regulations
- Required lux levels and uniformity
- Glare limitations
- Environmental challenges such as salt air, high temperatures or dust
- Energy reduction or sustainability targets
- Electrical and control constraints
- Budget and logistical considerations
Skipping this stage leads to unclear scopes and expensive corrections later.
2. Produce a Professional Lighting Design
Once objectives are defined, the next step is a detailed lighting design.
This is a technical simulation showing:
- Average and minimum lux levels
- Uniformity ratios
- Glare values
- Pole positions and aiming angles
- Compliance with the relevant standard
Lighting design must always precede specification and procurement. The design determines the product requirements, not the other way round.
It should be based on verified photometric data such as LM79 tested files, not brochure values. Without this, projects risk non-compliance, poor uniformity or excessive glare.
Design is where engineering meets reality. It is the foundation of everything that follows.
3. Develop a Robust Specification
With an approved design, a detailed technical specification can be written.A strong specification will define:
Mechanical requirements
- IP and IK ratings
- Dimensions and weight
- Wind loading limits
- Lumen output
- Beam distribution
- Colour temperature and CRI
- Voltage range
- Surge protection
- Power factor
- Driver type and control compatibility
- Salt mist resistance
- Corrosion protection
- Relevant certifications
- DALI or other protocols
- Dimming capability
- Monitoring and integration requirements
The specification ensures the installed system will deliver the designed performance. Without it, comparisons become inconsistent and risk increases.
4. Go to Tender with Clarity
Tender documents should include:
- The full technical specification
- Approved lighting design
- Bill of quantities
- Site constraints and project conditions
Clear documentation ensures suppliers are pricing the same scope. Vague tenders lead to confusion, exclusions and later disputes.
5. Evaluate Bids Properly
Evaluation should be structured and balanced.
Questions to ask include:
- Does the proposal meet every technical requirement?
- Are certifications and laboratory reports provided?
- Are performance claims independently verified?
- Is the pricing complete, including controls, logistics and warranty?
Selecting solely on lowest price often results in delays, variations or underperforming systems.
A good framework scores submissions across compliance, technical merit, warranty, references, price and delivery timeline.
6. Clarifications and Alignment
Before award, seek clarification where needed:
- Confirmation of salt mist testing standards
- Evidence of long-term lumen maintenance
- Integration capability with existing control systems
- Packaging and shipping approach
- Lead times and payment terms
This stage ensures expectations are aligned before manufacturing begins.
7. Implementation on Site
Once awarded, the focus shifts to execution.
This phase includes:
- Manufacturing and quality control
- Logistics and customs
- Cabling and mast preparation
- Luminaire installation
- Control system setup
Coordination between supplier, contractor and client is essential. Strong communication prevents delays and installation errors.
8. Commissioning
Commissioning verifies that the system performs as designed.
This typically includes:
- On-site lux and uniformity measurements
- Verification of glare control
- Testing of DALI or other control systems
- Aiming and fine adjustments
- Mechanical and ingress protection checks
Commissioning is not simply switching on the lights. It is confirmation of compliance and performance.
9. Fine Tuning and Support
Even well-managed projects may require minor adjustments.
Examples include:
- Re-aiming luminaires
- Adjusting control zones
- Resolving sensor behaviour
- Addressing local power variations
A committed supplier supports this stage fully. Long-term reliability depends on it.
10. Handover Documentation
Formal handover should include:
- As-built drawings
- Final photometric results
- Commissioning reports
- Warranty certificates
- Maintenance guidance
Accurate documentation protects the asset and supports future maintenance.
11. End-User Training
If the system includes controls or monitoring, users must understand:
- How to operate lighting zones
- How to adjust settings
- How to identify faults
- What steps to take if issues arise
Training is often overlooked, yet it is critical for long-term performance.
12. Ongoing Review and Maintenance
Lighting systems operate in demanding environments. Dust, vibration, corrosion and voltage fluctuations all affect performance.
Regular inspections and performance reviews help maintain compliance and extend lifespan. In mission critical environments such as airports, annual inspections are strongly recommended.
Final Thoughts: Process Delivers Performance
The success of a lighting project is determined long before installation begins.
A disciplined process that starts with defined objectives, progresses through proper design and specification, and is delivered through careful implementation will always outperform a product-led approach.
The right product matters. But the right process matters more.
If you are planning an upgrade or a new installation, ensure the journey is structured from day one. A methodical approach protects performance, compliance and long-term return on investment.