10 Common Applications of Westgate Lighting in Commercial Buildings

• Westgate Lighting manufactures commercial-grade luminaires with high efficiency, multi-voltage drivers, and compatibility with building automation and lighting control systems.
• Westgate lighting products are commonly used across offices, warehouses, retail spaces, parking areas, façades, stairwells, and emergency egress applications.
• Proper Westgate lighting specification requires photometric planning, control integration, voltage coordination, and compliance with UL, DLC, and energy codes.

Lighting systems in commercial buildings are no longer treated as passive infrastructure. They are engineered components tightly integrated with energy management systems, life-safety protocols, and visual performance requirements. Westgate Lighting has established itself as a reliable provider of commercial-grade luminaires capable of supporting complex applications. Their product catalog covers a wide range of interior and exterior needs with a focus on performance, compliance, and system compatibility.

This article explores ten of the most common applications of Westgate Lighting products in commercial buildings. Each application is discussed with technical depth, including typical fixture types, integration challenges, control strategies, and regulatory alignment. The intent is to provide lighting designers, electrical engineers, and facility managers with the insights necessary to specify, deploy, and maintain Westgate luminaires effectively in real-world commercial settings.

1- Westgate Lighting Commercial Product Strategy

Product Line Composition and Capabilities

Westgate Lighting’s commercial-grade portfolio is structured to accommodate varied operational needs, from office interiors to exterior site lighting. The product range includes troffers, high bays, emergency lighting, wall packs, canopy fixtures, and architectural accents. Each product family typically includes multiple form factors, wattage options, and control configurations, allowing specifiers to select products that match both the space type and performance criteria. This modular approach reduces SKU sprawl while maintaining flexibility across diverse projects.

Fixture designs emphasize high efficacy, low total harmonic distortion (THD), and thermal reliability. Westgate fixtures commonly achieve efficacy levels exceeding 120 lumens per watt and utilize drivers that meet UL Class 2 requirements. Their widespread voltage support (120–277V and 347–480V options) enables deployment in everything from small retail stores to industrial warehouses and institutional campuses. Additionally, many luminaires feature interchangeable lenses and field-adjustable CCT or wattage, simplifying stocking and on-site adjustments.

Standards, Certifications, and Controls Compatibility

Westgate Lighting aligns its products with a broad range of commercial-grade certifications. Most fixtures meet or exceed UL, DLC (DesignLights Consortium), Energy Star, FCC Part 15, and RoHS standards. Many are also listed as DLC Premium, qualifying for aggressive utility rebate programs. For jurisdictions like California, selected models comply with JA8 requirements and offer integrated occupancy and daylight sensors as standard or optional add-ons.

Control compatibility is a major focus across the product line. Fixtures typically support 0–10V dimming as a baseline and are designed for integration with standalone or networked systems using DALI or BACnet protocols. This allows for tiered control schemes based on space type, from simple bi-level switching in stairwells to fully automated daylight harvesting in office zones. Fixtures are available with factory-installed sensors or can be paired with third-party controllers as needed.

2- Parking Lot and Perimeter Area Lighting

Fixture Types and Photometric Strategies

Area lighting for commercial perimeters, including parking lots, drive lanes, and walkways, requires a balance of output, uniformity, and visual comfort. Westgate’s solutions for this category include LED area lights, such as the SLL and AL series, which support various optical distributions including Type III, IV, and V. These optics allow designers to tailor light throw based on pole placement and target surface geometry, whether illuminating a rectangular parking grid or a circular drop-off zone.

Lumen packages range from approximately 8,000 to over 40,000 lumens per fixture, supporting mounting heights between 15 and 35 feet. Optical performance is enhanced with polycarbonate or tempered glass lenses that optimize beam shaping while providing vandal resistance. The fixtures are designed with thermal dissipation in mind, using finned aluminum housings and driver isolation to maintain junction temperature and extend L70 life beyond 100,000 hours.

Controls, Voltage, and Code Considerations

Most Westgate area lights come standard with 0–10V dimming drivers and are optionally equipped with integrated dusk-to-dawn photocells or PIR sensors. These fixtures are also compatible with external wireless control nodes via NEMA twist-lock receptacles, which allow participation in adaptive lighting networks. Voltage configurations include universal 120–277V drivers and optional 347–480V input for use in larger commercial and industrial lots.

From a code compliance perspective, fixtures can be specified with dark-sky friendly optics (BUG ratings available) to reduce upward light and mitigate light trespass. This is essential for compliance with local zoning codes and LEED site lighting requirements. Additionally, surge protection up to 10kV is commonly built in, safeguarding against transient voltages common in exterior circuits.

3- Office Interior Ambient and Task Lighting

Fixture Selection and Lighting Design Objectives

Office interiors demand lighting that supports visual clarity, reduces eye strain, and accommodates changes in space utilization. Westgate addresses these needs with LED troffers commonly used in commercial office ceilings, along with backlit panels and volumetric fixtures available in 1x4, 2x2, and 2x4 sizes. Many models include selectable wattage and CCT (commonly 3500K, 4000K, 5000K), allowing for in-field customization to meet visual comfort and energy performance goals. Efficacy values commonly exceed 125 lumens per watt, supporting low lighting power densities in line with ASHRAE 90.1.

These fixtures are designed for use in standard T-grid ceilings and support uniform illumination across open-plan workspaces, private offices, and support zones. Glare reduction is addressed through optical diffusers and UGR (Unified Glare Rating) control in select models. Flicker-free operation and high CRI values (80–90+) help reduce visual fatigue, particularly in environments with high computer use. Some luminaires also offer indirect distribution options for applications where balanced vertical illumination is required.

Control Strategies and Energy Code Alignment

Most Westgate office lighting products support 0–10V dimming as standard, with compatibility for integrated daylight sensors and occupancy sensors. These can be specified for open-loop or closed-loop configurations, depending on ceiling architecture and natural light availability. Wireless control integration is also supported in certain models, enabling zone-level control or fixture-level addressing as part of a Building Management System (BMS).

Energy code compliance is streamlined through the use of preset dimming profiles, standby modes, and daylight-responsive dimming. In states such as California or Massachusetts, fixtures can be specified to meet mandatory automatic shut-off requirements and support manual-on/automatic-off configurations. Integration with demand-response systems is also feasible using low-voltage control relays or wireless gateways, allowing for lighting load curtailment during peak periods.

4- Emergency and Egress Lighting

Fixture Categories and Deployment Strategies

Westgate offers a robust set of emergency and egress lighting products suitable for both new construction and retrofit scenarios. Common product types include LED exit signs, combination exit/emergency units, and wall-mounted or recessed emergency lights. These fixtures comply with UL 924 standards and meet NFPA 101 requirements for egress illumination, with battery backups that provide a minimum of 90 minutes of operation during power loss.

Exit signs are available in red or green LED configurations, with field-configurable directional arrows. Emergency heads are typically adjustable and provide focused coverage for egress paths, doorways, and corridors. Combo units are particularly efficient for small commercial spaces or retrofit applications where code mandates both exit identification and emergency lighting. Mounting options include ceiling, wall, and end mounting with universal backplates and knockout patterns.

Testing, Maintenance, and System Integration

Fixtures are offered with self-diagnostic testing capabilities that perform monthly and annual function checks, reducing maintenance oversight. Status LEDs indicate readiness, battery health, and fault detection. For larger facilities, units can be integrated into central test systems or monitored through building automation platforms if paired with appropriate relay modules.

Battery chemistry is typically Ni-Cad or Lithium Iron Phosphate, chosen for reliability and temperature stability. Some models allow remote heads to be connected for expanded coverage without adding new circuits. Dual-circuit input is available on selected models, allowing integration with generator-backed circuits or transfer devices for additional redundancy. Listings include damp or wet location ratings for use in stairwells, loading docks, and other transitional spaces.

5- Retail and Aisle Lighting

Accent, Task, and Vertical Illumination Techniques

Retail environments require lighting that not only illuminates but also enhances merchandise visibility and creates visual interest. Westgate’s retail lighting offerings include adjustable track heads, recessed downlights, and wall-wash fixtures. These are designed with precise beam angles (typically 15°, 24°, and 36°) to enable targeted lighting for feature displays, endcaps, and mannequins. High CRI values (90+ available) ensure accurate color reproduction, which is especially critical in apparel and cosmetics segments.

Beam control is achieved through field-changeable lenses and snoots, allowing installers to fine-tune illumination during seasonal resets. Luminaires are available in multiple finishes to match retail design schemes and include quick-lock adapters for fast repositioning. For general aisle lighting, linear suspended fixtures with wide optics distribute consistent horizontal and vertical light, improving shelf visibility and navigation.

Lighting Control and Retail System Integration

Retail spaces benefit from layered lighting control strategies that allow for time-based scenes, energy savings, and mood shifts. Westgate supports this through dimmable drivers (0–10V and TRIAC), as well as Bluetooth-enabled control nodes. This allows integration into modern retail automation platforms that manage HVAC, lighting, and POS systems centrally.

Some fixtures are compatible with motion sensors to reduce energy use during off-hours or low-traffic periods. Additionally, adaptive lighting can be achieved through tunable white options that adjust color temperature throughout the day or in response to store branding changes. Emergency lighting compliance is also addressed through combination fixtures or backup inverter systems integrated with the same circuits.

6- Industrial and Warehouse High Bay Lighting

Performance Requirements and Fixture Options

Industrial and warehouse environments present unique lighting challenges due to high ceiling heights, fluctuating occupancy, and the need for consistent visibility across large areas. Westgate’s high bay product families, including the HBL and HLF series, deliver lumen packages from 15,000 to over 60,000 lumens with efficacy levels exceeding 130 lm/W. These fixtures support mounting heights of up to 40 feet and are available with narrow and wide beam optics to accommodate both racked and open warehouse configurations.

Thermal management is engineered into every aspect of the fixture design, with extruded aluminum heat sinks and isolated drivers ensuring that junction temperatures remain within safe operating limits. This design contributes to extended lifespan ratings often exceeding 100,000 hours at L70. Reflector options include acrylic and aluminum variants with various beam distributions, while some models support field-adjustable wattage and color temperature for deployment flexibility.

Controls Integration and Safety Considerations

Control systems play a critical role in reducing operational costs in low-occupancy industrial settings. Westgate’s high bay fixtures often include optional plug-in microwave sensors or PIR sensors for bi-level dimming and motion-triggered activation. Daylight harvesting sensors can be integrated to dim fixtures near skylights or dock doors, reducing energy consumption during daylight hours. Compatibility with 0–10V controls enables further automation across lighting zones.

Fixtures are built with IP65 ingress protection and IK08 impact ratings, allowing them to perform reliably in dusty, humid, or lightly corrosive environments. In applications involving forklifts or overhead cranes, glare control is a priority, and appropriate shielding or diffusers should be specified. Emergency lighting requirements can be met using centralized inverter systems or fixture-integrated emergency drivers rated for high bay installations, ensuring code compliance in large open areas.

7- Architectural Façade and Building Accent Lighting

Aesthetic Goals and Optical Design

Architectural lighting on building façades serves branding, wayfinding, and visual interest objectives while also addressing security and pedestrian safety. Westgate offers architectural linear wall washers, compact floods, and surface-mounted accent lights suitable for building exteriors, often specified alongside commercial-grade LED flood lighting for facades and signage. These fixtures provide tight optical control through precise lensing, supporting beam angles ranging from narrow spot to wide flood for grazing or washing effects.

Products are available in fixed white (3000K to 5000K) and color-tunable RGB/RGBW versions. Housing finishes include bronze, white, and custom RAL options upon request, enabling visual consistency with building architecture. Light output ranges from 1,000 to over 10,000 lumens, depending on the model, with field-rotable heads and mounting brackets providing onsite adjustability for aiming. All units are constructed for long-term exposure with UV-resistant lenses and powder-coated die-cast aluminum bodies.

Installation and System Control Protocols

Westgate façade lighting supports DMX or DALI control protocols in color-changing models, facilitating integration with building-wide show lighting systems or programmable displays. Static color models are controllable via standard dimming protocols or photocell-based switching for automatic on/off scheduling. Many fixtures include built-in surge protection and remote driver options, which are valuable for minimizing thermal loading in confined architectural enclosures.

Installers benefit from adjustable mounting arms and universal backplates, which ease deployment on both flat walls and corner junctions. Wet location ratings (IP66 or higher) ensure operation in heavy rain or high-pressure washdown scenarios. These luminaires can also contribute to LEED exterior lighting credits if specified with appropriate shielding and backlight controls to minimize uplight and light trespass.

8- Conference Rooms and Collaborative Workspaces

Functional Requirements and Fixture Capabilities

Conference rooms and collaborative environments require dynamic lighting systems that support multiple use modes including presentations, video conferencing, and group work. Westgate provides pendant-mounted, recessed, and surface-mounted luminaires with tunable white and dimming capabilities suitable for these multi-use zones. Fixtures in this category include direct-indirect distribution options that balance horizontal and vertical illuminance, contributing to reduced shadowing and enhanced facial visibility.

Color temperatures can typically be adjusted between 3000K and 5000K, enabling a shift from alert, high-focus light for work sessions to warm, low-glare light for presentations or informal discussions. Flicker-free drivers support visual comfort during extended sessions under artificial lighting, and CRI ratings above 90 are often available for applications where color accuracy is valued. Acoustic baffle integration with lighting is also supported in some ceiling-mounted models, adding functional benefits in reverberant meeting areas.

Scene Control and AV System Integration

Scene-based control is essential in conferencing zones to accommodate changing tasks throughout the day. Westgate fixtures can be integrated with wall-mounted scene controllers or programmed through wireless lighting hubs using 0–10V or digital protocols. Dimming curves and transitions can be configured to avoid distracting light changes during meetings. Sensors can automate shut-off when spaces are unoccupied, contributing to energy code compliance and operational efficiency.

For AV integration, lighting circuits can be synchronized with projector activation or display systems using dry-contact relays or building management integration. This allows predefined lighting presets to be triggered automatically at the start of presentations. Recessed fixtures can be arranged to avoid casting shadows on walls used for projection, while pendant or linear luminaires can be spaced to provide even coverage without disrupting ceiling acoustic treatments.

9- Canopies, Garages & Loading Docks

Fixture Selection and Environmental Resilience

Covered outdoor areas such as gas canopies, parking structures, and loading docks require luminaires that offer both robustness and uniform light distribution. Westgate’s LED canopy lights and vapor-tight linear fixtures are designed for low-ceiling environments where glare control and wide beam angles are essential. These products are available with IP65 or IP66 ratings and can operate in extreme temperatures from -40°C to +50°C, making them suitable for exposed transitional areas.

Typical products include the CPL and VPL series, which offer field-selectable wattages and CCTs, making them highly adaptable during commissioning. Fixtures can be surface-mounted or pendant-hung and are sealed against moisture, dust, and vehicle exhaust fumes. Impact-resistant polycarbonate lenses and aluminum housings ensure long-term reliability in areas exposed to frequent vibration or incidental contact from vehicles and cargo.

Photometric Design and Compliance

Lighting levels in canopies and docks must comply with local illumination codes and IES recommendations, particularly in zones used for shipping, receiving, or refueling. Uniformity is critical for safety and visibility, and Westgate’s wide beam optics and diffusers help eliminate hotspots and shadows. Beam patterns are designed to avoid vertical glare that could hinder drivers or pedestrians.

Photocell control and motion sensor integration are commonly supported, reducing energy use during inactive periods. Fixtures can also be networked for group control or integrated into a centralized lighting control system. Mounting accessories include junction box adapters, angle brackets, and wire guard kits to meet site-specific installation and protection requirements.

10- Stairwells and Back-of-House Utility Areas

Safety-Oriented Design and Fixture Behavior

Stairwells, electrical rooms, mechanical spaces, and janitorial areas all fall under utility lighting zones where safety and reliability are prioritized. Westgate’s stairwell strip fixtures and vapor-tight luminaires are designed with bi-level dimming features and field-selectable output settings. These luminaires automatically reduce output when unoccupied, conserving energy while remaining compliant with minimum illumination requirements specified by IBC and ASHRAE 90.1.

Stairwell fixtures are offered in surface and wall-mount configurations with tamper-resistant hardware and impact-resistant housings. Output levels typically range from 1,800 to 5,000 lumens, and motion detection coverage spans up to 20 feet depending on mounting height and angle. Color temperature options are generally 4000K or 5000K to ensure clear visibility in emergency egress situations, and backup battery models are available with UL 924 certification.

Code Compliance and Mounting Considerations

Code requirements for egress paths and enclosed utility spaces often mandate continuous illumination or rapid return-to-full-brightness operation. Westgate fixtures comply with these by offering instant-on drivers and occupancy sensors with programmable delay times and dimming profiles. In some models, controls are built into the endcaps or lens compartments, simplifying installation and maintenance.

Mounting hardware includes universal brackets and conduit knockouts for surface wiring in retrofit applications. Wet location ratings ensure that fixtures can be used in unconditioned or partially enclosed spaces, including exterior stairwells or pump rooms. Control wiring is simplified with plug-and-play connectors, and detailed installation guides ensure proper spacing and aiming for code-compliant coverage.

Signage and Wayfinding Illumination

Illuminated Signage and Directional Systems

Commercial signage, both illuminated and non-illuminated, must be clearly visible and readable across various distances and lighting conditions. Westgate supplies LED strip modules, mini floodlights, and directional projectors designed for sign cabinet and channel letter illumination. These modules provide high-lumen density and tight beam control for edge-lit and backlit configurations, ensuring uniform face illumination without hot spots.

Strip lighting systems include flexible waterproof options with silicone encapsulation for exterior use. Fixtures are offered in static white (4000K or 5000K) and can be paired with DMX-compatible drivers for color-tunable signage. Directional projectors with shielded optics are ideal for monument signs and building nameplates, minimizing glare while preserving visibility at a distance.

Control Options and Environmental Adaptability

Control systems for signage typically include time-based relays, photocells, or programmable logic via central controllers. Westgate products support these configurations with simple driver interfaces and optional wireless relay modules. Many systems include memory features that restore previous states after power loss, a critical feature in areas prone to outages or brownouts.

Mounting systems include adjustable brackets and slide rails for precision alignment during installation. Fixtures carry wet location or IP67 ratings for outdoor deployment and can withstand exposure to rain, snow, and environmental pollutants. Signage lighting can also be integrated with emergency circuits or battery inverters when required by code for egress pathfinding or public safety.

Integrating Westgate Lighting with Building Systems

Controls Architecture and Protocol Compatibility

Effective lighting integration requires compatibility with control architectures ranging from local sensors to enterprise-scale automation systems. Westgate luminaires support 0–10V dimming across nearly all commercial product families, providing a universal baseline for analog control. Many fixtures also support digital control platforms including DALI, enabling integration with advanced building management systems (BMS).

Lighting zones can be programmed based on occupancy, daylight, or scheduled events. Networked fixtures may also support individual addressability, offering granular control in dynamic spaces. Multi-level dimming and demand response signals can be managed via gateways or wireless hubs, allowing facility operators to balance lighting quality with peak load management.

Monitoring, Scheduling, and Interoperability

Building-wide lighting systems often include centralized dashboards for monitoring and scheduling. Westgate-compatible systems can report energy consumption, fixture status, and sensor activity to supervisory platforms, enabling proactive maintenance and operational insights. This data is especially valuable in LEED or WELL-certified facilities where lighting performance impacts sustainability reporting.

Fixtures are engineered with standardized connectors and control leads to simplify integration. Interoperability with HVAC and life-safety systems is also feasible via shared sensor inputs or network communication protocols. Westgate provides integration documentation for specifiers working with control contractors, ensuring that lighting systems operate reliably within the broader building infrastructure.

Electrical and Mounting Considerations

Voltage, Wiring, and Load Management

Commercial lighting systems must be matched to the facility’s electrical distribution topology. Westgate fixtures are available in 120–277V and 347–480V configurations, supporting both single-phase and three-phase environments. Many products include universal drivers that auto-sense voltage and simplify procurement for mixed-application projects. Inrush current data is provided in spec sheets to ensure compatibility with panelboards and contactors.

Wiring methods include plug-and-play connectors, integrated junction boxes, or pigtail whips depending on the fixture type. THHN conductors and MC cable are typically used for branch circuit wiring, with conduit fittings and strain reliefs integrated into the fixture design. Load balancing is critical in large installations, and Westgate supports photometric and electrical submittals for coordination with electrical engineers.

Mounting Hardware and Retrofit Kits

Mounting options are extensive, including surface, pendant, recessed, and trunnion configurations. Retrofit kits are available for upgrading fluorescent troffers, vapor-tight fixtures, and HID wall packs. These kits include adapter plates, mounting brackets, and wire harnesses that streamline installation without major infrastructure changes.

Installers benefit from keyed slots, quick-release latches, and rotatable heads in many products. Anti-vibration and anti-corrosion hardware is available for fixtures deployed in high-movement or outdoor environments. Comprehensive installation guides and template documents are provided with each fixture, minimizing field errors and accelerating commissioning timelines.

Lifecycle Cost Analysis

Maintenance Cycles and Degradation Metrics

Westgate fixtures are designed for long service life, with L70 lifespans often exceeding 100,000 hours. Some models approach L90 ratings above 50,000 hours, reducing lumen depreciation and extending maintenance intervals. Thermal design and driver protection features help maintain stable output and reduce premature failures, particularly in 24/7 operations.

Routine maintenance is further reduced through sealed housings, tamper-resistant fasteners, and integrated sensors that reduce control system complexity. Fixture failure data and degradation curves are provided in TM-21 format, aiding in ROI modeling and warranty planning. Many luminaires include 5- to 10-year warranties, supported by nationwide distributor and contractor networks.

Economic Performance and Incentives

From a cost-of-ownership perspective, Westgate products qualify for utility rebate programs under DLC Standard and Premium classifications. This can significantly reduce payback periods, particularly in high-burn environments like warehouses, retail, and exterior lighting. Tools for energy modeling and rebate lookup are provided to support value engineering during design phases.

Projects benefit from reduced installation labor due to tool-free mounting systems and field-selectable settings. Retrofit kits minimize waste and reduce downtime in live facilities. Total lifecycle cost calculations must factor in energy savings, reduced maintenance, control integration efficiency, and regulatory compliance to fully appreciate the economic benefits of Westgate commercial lighting systems.

Final Thoughts

Commercial lighting design is both an art and a science, requiring precise coordination of output, controls, compliance, and aesthetics. Westgate Lighting provides a comprehensive toolkit for meeting these demands across a wide variety of applications. From high-output exterior area lighting to precision-controlled interior systems, their product portfolio aligns with the technical and operational expectations of professional environments.

Each application explored in this article demonstrates the critical role of specification, integration, and performance validation. By selecting appropriate Westgate fixtures based on use case, electrical infrastructure, and control strategy, project teams can deliver energy-efficient, code-compliant, and visually effective lighting systems that support the evolving needs of commercial facilities.

Get the Right Lighting and Electrical Products for Your Next Project

At Buy Rite Electric, we know that successful commercial lighting installations depend not only on the quality of the fixtures but also on the reliability of every component in the system. That’s why we work closely with professionals who are specifying or installing solutions like Westgate Lighting in demanding commercial environments. Whether the application is office interiors, warehouse retrofits, or exterior area lighting, we support our customers with the products and technical insight they need to complete projects that meet both performance and code requirements.

Since 1986, we've served the electrical industry by offering high-quality floor boxes, power delivery systems, lighting solutions, and electrical accessories from top-tier manufacturers. Our curated selection is backed by fast shipping, attentive service, and our 110% low price guarantee. If you're sourcing lighting or related electrical components for your next commercial project, we invite you to browse our full product line on our website. Need assistance selecting the right floor receptacle or verifying product compatibility? Contact us today, our knowledgeable team is ready to help.