How LED Emergency Lights Support Safer Evacuations

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

Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs don’t delay and give smooth light. This is necessary during a building exit when uninterrupted lighting is critical.

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

Why Replacing Legacy Emergency Lights with LEDs Makes Sense

Older systems using fluorescent tubes often need frequent replacements and consume more electricity overall.

LED units can run for tens of thousands of hours with minimal loss, cutting downtime and improving long-term planning.

Even during routine checks, their low consumption helps limit wastage.

Thanks to their non-fragile design, LED lights withstand tough conditions with vibrations, temperature variations, and ongoing testing.

Types of LED Emergency Lights

• Maintained units: Remain on during both normal operation and outages. Suitable for public corridors where constant lighting is required.


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


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


• Bulkheads: These are tough fittings for outdoor passageways, designed to resist the elements.

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 escape routes, and ensuring they cover essential areas such as high-risk sections.

Newer models often come with self-test capabilities that track performance, helping to cut manual inspection time.

Practical Gains for Facility Operators and Occupants

Reliable performance 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 little disruption and support low carbon operations through energy efficiency.

FAQs

How long do LEDs for emergency use typically operate?

Most models provide uninterrupted light for several years before component renewal 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 consult your provider first.

Is it worth choosing a self-test version?

For sure, as it simplifies compliance, especially useful in multi-use facilities.

What brightness level should escape routes have?

Lighting must meet legally required brightness, and reputable LEDs ensure compliant illumination.