How LED Emergency Lights Support Safer Evacuations

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

Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs switch on without lag 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 inconsistent lighting in key areas such as exit zones.

Why Replacing Legacy Emergency Lights with LEDs Makes Sense

Older systems using fluorescent tubes often need constant maintenance and use more power overall.

LED units can run for extended periods with limited degradation, reducing maintenance costs and improving long-term planning.

Even during battery charging, their low consumption helps keep costs manageable.

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

Which LED Emergency Fitting is Right for the Job?

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


• Non-maintained units: Only activate 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 smoky conditions, directing people quickly to exits.


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

Compliant Installation and Testing Requirements

To ensure legal compliance, 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 built-in diagnostics that alert to failures, 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 integrated 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 reliable output for several years before component renewal is required.

Do they need professional installation?

Yes, a certified installer 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?

Definitely, as it reduces inspection effort, especially useful in low-maintenance environments.

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What brightness level should escape routes have?

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