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 inconsistent lighting in key areas such as stairs.

Benefits of Upgrading to Modern LED Fittings

Older systems using halogen bulbs often need frequent replacements and use more power overall.

LED units can run for tens of thousands of hours with steady performance, reducing maintenance costs and improving long-term planning.

Even during routine checks, their low consumption helps keep costs manageable.

Thanks to their solid 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 function halls where constant lighting is required.


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


• Exit signage: LED signs with strong contrast that stay visible in smoky conditions, directing people quickly to exits.


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

Meeting Safety Standards with Proper Setup

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

Stable light output 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 environmental objectives 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 licensed contractor 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.

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.