Techno-economic analysis of the implementation of the IEC 62034:2012 standard-automatic test systems for battery-powered emergency escape lighting-in a 52.8-meter multipurpose vessel

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the techno-economic feasibility of implementing the IEC 62034:2012 standard, which governs automatic test systems for battery-powered emergency escape lighting, on a 52.8-m multipurpose vessel. The work is based on a detailed case study of the vessel´s lighting systems, incorporating lighting simulations, system modifications using DALI-compatible components, and an economic analysis based on net present value, internal rate of return, and discounted payback period. The results demonstrate that the implementation reduces preventive maintenance costs significantly-from 24,750 EUR to 2250 EUR over ten years- while achieving a positive net present value of 5317 EUR, an internal rate of return of 27.81%, and a discounted payback period of under five years. The findings contribute to maritime safety literature by extending the application of IEC 62034:2012 to shipboard environments, where it is not yet standard practice. Practically, it provides a cost-effective and safety-enhancing solution for ship operators, suggesting that automated testing systems can replace outdated manual maintenance procedures and improve compliance with safety regulations.