Setting Standards - SAPCA’s New Code of Practice for Sports Floodlighting

A while ago, we shared with you our support of the creation of SAPCA’s Code of Practice for Contractors Working on the Installation and Retrofitting of Sports Lighting. This landmark document has now been published and sets new, rigorous standards for contractors across the UK sports facility sector, raising expectations around safety, compliance, environmental responsibility, and installation quality.

The new Code provides the clearest guidance to date on topics such as installation methods, electrical requirements, environmental considerations, maintenance, community impact, and long-term performance—giving facility operators a trusted benchmark for high-quality sports lighting projects.

The task force to raise the standards of sports floodlighting was driven by representatives from organisations such as SAPCA, England Netball, England Athletics, Great Britain Hockey, and the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), alongside other technical experts in lighting design and installation.

Our Director, Jonathan Paterson served as one of SAPCA’s technical advisors and sports lighting specialists, contributing his extensive knowledge in electrical engineering, floodlighting installation, and compliance standards.

Jonathan’s input helped shape several core areas of the Code, including:

• Electrical safety and certification requirements, including alignment with BS 7671 and NICEIC/ECA/NAPIT procedures
• Protection of existing sports surfaces, particularly where heat and machinery pose risks
• Standards for lux testing, photometric verification, and post-installation documentation
• Safety protocols for mast lowering, lifting operations, and IPAF-qualified work at height

“The industry has needed a unified set of minimum standards for a long time,” Jonathan says. “SAPCA’s new Code of Practice gives sports facility owners clarity, gives contractors accountability, and ultimately raises safety and performance across UK sport.”

What’s New in SAPCA’s Code of Practice?

1. Clearer Safety Standards

The Code now requires comprehensive risk assessments, correct PPE, strict LOLER-compliant lifting procedures, and clear protection measures for vulnerable sports surfaces.

2. Stronger Environmental and Carbon-Reduction Measures

Contractors must follow ILP guidance on reducing light pollution, manage waste responsibly, and promote LED and smart-control technologies to cut energy consumption.

3. Stricter Installation & Retrofit Requirements

From wiring and materials to mast testing and foundation assessments, the Code introduces robust measures designed to protect users and ensure long-term structural integrity.

4. Mandatory Lux Testing & Documentation

Every installation must be lux tested in line with governing body standards, with full test results and calibration certificates provided to clients.

5. A Greater Emphasis on Training

Contractors must demonstrate ongoing upskilling through CPD, emerging lighting technology training, and the use of verified competency passports.

A Major Step Forward for the Industry

SAPCA’s new Code of Practice strengthens accountability across the sports lighting sector by linking compliance to contractor accreditation, documentation standards, and safety responsibilities.

From grassroots clubs and schools with sports facilities to commercial venues and stadiums, facility operators now have clear guidance on what high-quality, safe, and future-ready lighting installation should look like.

For JHP Electrical, this collaboration highlights the company’s long-standing commitment to best practice and its reputation as trusted electrical contractors, who specialise in sports lighting across the UK.

JHP Electrical will continue to support the industry with expert installation, testing, and maintenance services that meet—and exceed—the new SAPCA standards.