How LED Emergency Lights Support Safer Evacuations

When mains electricity fails, LED emergency lights highlight routes clearly, helping individuals move towards safety without confusion.

Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs don’t delay and produce stable light. This is necessary during an emergency escape when visibility is important.

They also maintain colour integrity throughout their life, avoiding inconsistent lighting in key areas such as stairs.

Benefits of Upgrading to Modern LED Fittings

Older systems using fluorescent tubes often need constant maintenance and are less efficient overall.

LED units can run for long durations with minimal loss, cutting downtime and improving long-term planning.

Even during monthly function tests, their low consumption helps limit wastage.

Thanks to their durable design, LED lights withstand tough conditions with vibrations, ambient changes, and ongoing testing.

Types of LED Emergency Lights

• Maintained units: Operate continuously during both normal operation and outages. Suitable for theatres where constant lighting is required.


• Non-maintained units: Only power on during a power cut. Often seen in office spaces where lighting is not always needed.


• Exit signage: LED signs with uniform lighting that stay visible in low-light conditions, directing people quickly to exits.


• Bulkheads: These are hard-wearing fittings for outdoor passageways, designed to survive heavy use.

Compliant Installation and Testing Requirements

To ensure full functionality, LED emergency lights must be installed and tested according to BS 5266.

This includes placing them near critical zones, and ensuring they cover essential areas such as switchboards.

Newer models often come with self-test capabilities that alert to failures, helping to streamline audits.

Practical Gains for Facility Operators and Occupants

Consistent illumination supports safe navigation during power loss, while lower servicing requirements brings value to building owners.

LED systems can be added into existing safety setups with minimal rewiring and support low carbon operations through energy efficiency.

FAQs

How long do LEDs for emergency use typically operate?

Most models provide reliable output for several years before battery or circuit replacement is required.

Do they need professional installation?

Yes, a qualified electrician should fit them in line with BS 5266 to ensure safety and compliance.

Are older systems compatible with LED units?

Yes, many LED fittings are built to fit standard fire systems, but confirm wiring compatibility first.

Is it worth choosing a self-test version?

For sure, as it reduces inspection effort, especially useful in large buildings.

What brightness level should escape routes have?

Lighting must meet legally required brightness, and reputable LEDs are factory-set to comply.