How LED Emergency Lights Support Safer Evacuations

When there’s a power cut, LED emergency lights illuminate routes clearly, helping people move towards safety without confusion.

Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs switch on without lag and give smooth light. This is crucial during an evacuation when uninterrupted lighting is important.

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

Benefits of Upgrading to Modern LED Fittings

Older systems using halogen bulbs often need constant maintenance and are less efficient overall.

LED units can run for tens of thousands of hours with limited degradation, saving money and improving long-term planning.

Even during battery charging, their low consumption helps reduce energy usage.

Thanks to their non-fragile design, LED lights resist damage with vibrations, climate shifts, and ongoing testing.

Types of LED Emergency Lights

• Maintained units: Stay lit 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 proper performance, LED emergency lights must be installed and tested according to BS 5266.

This includes placing them near exit points, and ensuring they light up danger spots such as high-risk sections.

Newer models often come with built-in diagnostics that signal faults, helping to cut manual inspection time.

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 straightforward installation 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 compatible with standard fire systems, but check specifications first.

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Is it worth choosing a self-test version?

Definitely, as it simplifies compliance, especially useful in low-maintenance environments.

What brightness level should escape routes have?

Lighting must meet regulatory lighting levels, and reputable LEDs achieve this automatically.