At Whitecroft Lighting, we pride ourselves on being ahead of the curve. That’s why we’ve chosen to adopt the EU’s enhanced Radio Equipment Directive (RED) for our connected lighting systems, ahead of any UK requirements.

For anyone unfamiliar with the legislation, the RED Directive outlines essential requirements to ensure that wireless, radio-frequency (RF) equipment is safe, secure, and fit for purpose. 

It aims to:

• Prevent cyber threats across wireless networks
• Protect privacy and reduce the risk of fraud
• Ensure devices don’t interfere with one another
• Promotes standardised frequencies for better interoperability and communication with third-party devices, e.g. Wi-Fi, Sensors, IoT
• Improve overall product quality, user safety, and system performance
• It covers any device that sends or receives radio waves for communication or positioning – whether it’s smartphones, Wi-Fi routers, 2.4gHz devices, or IoT sensors. 

In our case, it applies to many of the smart, sensor-driven lighting solutions we design and deliver, such as our flagship Organic Response.

These solutions help reduce energy use, respond automatically to building occupancy, and connect seamlessly with wider building systems and other smart technologies through sensors and cloud-based systems. 

Why was it updated?

Cybersecurity threats are on the rise, and this latest round of standards reflects the growing need for protection in data-driven, cloud-connected environments.

The EU’s new Delegated Acts under RED, improves cybersecurity, privacy, and fraud prevention in RF technologies. 

Without adopting these updated standards, systems risk greater exposure to the rising number of cyber threats, with potential consequences such as data breaches, network compromise, and reduced performance. 

 Why is Whitecroft taking action ahead of UK legislation?

By becoming an early adopter of RED in the UK, we’ve strengthened our customers’ data integrity while protecting them from cyberattacks, data breaches, and system manipulation. 

Our flagship system, Organic Response, already aligns with ISO 27001, the global benchmark for information security, safeguarding both users and equipment from electromagnetic interference.

Through early-adoption of RED, we’re also supporting building certifications such as WiredScore and SmartScore, which increasingly prioritise cybersecurity as part of smart building standards.

That’s why we see this decision as both the right choice for our customers and a sound commercial move.

Why is the CE mark a sign of quality and why does it matter?

The industry has become awash with cheaper offshore, non-EU systems which present significant security risks to businesses and can potentially undermine system performance.

Whether it’s a specifier ensuring compliance with the latest cybersecurity standard, like ISO 27001, or a facilities manager seeking reliable, long-term performance, RED Directive-approved products offer reassurance and reliability. 

Compliance with RED is also demonstrated through the CE mark in the EU, a legal requirement for placing radio equipment on the market. CE confirms that a product meets EU legislation, though it is not a direct measure of product quality.

In the UK, products require a UKCA marking, but the CE marking continues to be recognised indefinitely. By aligning with RED now, Whitecroft ensures its systems remain fully compliant across both UK and EU markets.

Jason Casey, Technical Controls and Service Manager, said: “RED Directive compliance is about setting high standards and giving customers confidence in our systems. Demand is growing for future-proofed lighting that is safe, secure, and compliant with the latest standards, solutions that protect personal data and won’t compromise building performance. 

“Cheaper, non-compliant alternatives may cut corners, but they expose businesses to real risks: from cybersecurity threats and data breaches to costly disruptions and shorter product lifespans. Whitecroft is taking the initiative now, doing what’s right for our customers, even before UK regulation catches up.”

For Whitecroft Lighting’s guide to the RED Directive, click here.

 

ABOUT WHITECROFT LIGHTING

Since 1945, Whitecroft Lighting has been a cornerstone of British manufacturing, evolving into one of the UK’s largest commercial lighting providers. Operating from our 10,000sqm facility in Greater Manchester, we combine decades of R&D expertise with a global reach as part of the Fagerhult Group. We aren’t just manufacturers; we are leaders in circularity, holding the UK’s first Cradle-to-Cradle certification for luminaires and operating with Science Based Targets to ensure our carbon reduction becomes your carbon reduction.

In the data centre sector, we know that every second of downtime and every watt of energy counts. We provide high-performance, circular lighting solutions specifically engineered for the demanding ‘white’ and ‘grey’ spaces of modern facilities.

What sets us apart is speed and certainty. Our ‘Light Line’ systems are pre-assembled and plug-and-play, with a 2-person team being able to install 250m per day, drastically reducing onsite installation time and eliminating the risks of complex wiring. For the data hall, we deliver market-leading efficacy – up to 212 lumens per watt – which directly lowers your PUE and supports Net Zero targets.

Our solutions are built for longevity and use 70% recycled aluminium and modular components that can be upgraded without dismantling the whole system. Essentially, we give you a single-source UK partner that guarantees a faster build, lower operational costs, and a future-proofed facility that meets the highest TIA-942 and EN 12464 standards.

For further information visit https://www.whitecroftlighting.com/solutions/sector-solutions/data-centres or email richard.williams@whitecroftlight.com

Visit the DATACENTRE.ME Directory Listing for WHITECROFT LIGHTING here.

 

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