A symbol is only useful if everyone reads it the same way.
The exact graphic convention can vary between studios and countries. What matters is that each symbol is unique, appears consistently across the drawing package, carries the correct code or note, and is explained in the drawing legend. For specialist life-safety and electrical-engineering drawings, use the notation required by the project consultant and applicable standards.
Show where an item is located on the plan and use a code such as L01, S01 or P01 to connect it to the corresponding schedule.
Manufacturer, model, wattage, CCT, finish, mounting type, dimming protocol, IP rating and other specifications belong in the schedule rather than being squeezed into the plan.
Lighting
General ceiling-mounted or pendant light point. Confirm exact fixture in the lighting schedule.
Recessed ceiling luminaire; use fixture code to distinguish type, trim and beam.
Surface-mounted ceiling spotlight or cylinder.
Decorative or task pendant suspended from the ceiling.
Linear LED, profile or continuous luminaire.
Wall-mounted decorative or architectural luminaire.
Loose decorative lamp shown when part of the lighting intent.
Emergency luminaire. Exact notation and requirements are jurisdiction/project specific.
Switching + controls
Single switch controlling one lighting group from one location.
Switch used where the same circuit is controlled from two locations.
Used between two-way switches when control is required from 3+ locations.
Dimming control. Confirm compatibility with fitting, driver and control protocol.
Multi-button scene or smart-lighting controller.
Presence / occupancy sensor controlling lighting automatically.
Wall-mounted environmental or system control point.
Motorised blind or curtain control switch / keypad.
Power + data
General single power outlet.
General double power outlet.
Floor-mounted box containing power / data outlets.
Socket with integrated USB / charging provision.
Television outlet / connection point.
Ethernet / network outlet.
Telephone / telecom outlet where still required.
Dedicated connection point for a specific appliance or item of equipment.
Specialist + safety
Smoke detector / alarm location.
Heat detector where specified by fire strategy.
Carbon monoxide detector where required.
Doorbell button, chime or intercom call point.
Audio / video intercom station.
Camera location / provision.
Security / PIR / alarm sensor location.
Card reader / keypad / access-control device.
Abbreviations
| Abbreviation | Meaning | Use |
|---|---|---|
| AFF | Above Finished Floor | Used with mounting heights for switches, sockets, wall lights and controls. |
| RCP | Reflected Ceiling Plan | Ceiling layout showing lighting and other ceiling-mounted elements. |
| CL | Centreline | Used to position fittings relative to furniture, walls or joinery. |
| TBC | To Be Confirmed | Information still awaiting a final decision or specialist input. |
| VIF | Verify In Field | Dimension or condition that must be checked on site before installation. |
| DIM | Dimmable | Fixture / circuit intended to be dimmed; compatibility must still be confirmed. |
| PIR | Passive Infrared | Common sensor notation for presence / motion detection. |
| USB | USB charging outlet | Power outlet with integrated charging provision. |