The Importance of LED Emergency Lights in Fire Events

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

Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs start instantly and emit flicker-free light. This is vital during an evacuation when visibility is critical.

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

Benefits of Upgrading to Modern LED Fittings

Older systems using non-LED technology often need constant maintenance and use more power overall.

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

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

Thanks to their solid design, LED lights cope well with vibrations, climate shifts, and ongoing testing.

Which LED Emergency Fitting is Right for the Job?

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


• Non-maintained units: Only illuminate 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 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 proper performance, LED emergency lights must be installed and tested according here 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 ease maintenance scheduling.

Practical Gains for Facility Operators and Occupants

Stable light output supports safe navigation during power loss, while resilience brings value to building owners.

LED systems can be retrofitted 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 steady performance for several years before battery or circuit replacement 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 built to fit standard fire systems, but confirm wiring compatibility first.

Is it worth choosing a self-test version?

Yes, as it automates testing, especially useful in large buildings.

What brightness level should escape routes have?

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