The Importance of LED Emergency Lights in Fire Events

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

Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs don’t delay and emit flicker-free light. This is crucial during an evacuation when clear sight 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 constant maintenance and are less efficient overall.

LED units can run for extended periods with minimal loss, saving money and improving long-term planning.

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

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

Types of LED Emergency Lights

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


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


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


• Bulkheads: These are tough fittings for outdoor passageways, designed to last in harsh conditions.

Compliant Installation and Testing Requirements

To ensure legal compliance, LED emergency lights must be installed and tested according more info to BS 5266.

This includes placing them near critical zones, and ensuring they highlight fire control equipment such as switchboards.

Newer models often come with built-in diagnostics that alert to failures, helping to ease maintenance scheduling.

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 integrated 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 uninterrupted light 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 designed to match standard fire systems, but confirm wiring compatibility first.

Is it worth choosing a self-test version?

Definitely, as it simplifies compliance, especially useful in large buildings.

What brightness level should escape routes have?

Lighting must meet legally required brightness, and reputable LEDs achieve this automatically.