The Importance of LED Emergency Lights in Fire Events

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

Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs start instantly and produce stable light. This is necessary during a building exit when clear sight is important.

They also maintain uniform brightness throughout their life, avoiding inconsistent lighting in key areas such as stairs.

Why Replacing Legacy Emergency Lights with LEDs Makes Sense

Older systems using halogen bulbs often need regular upkeep and are less efficient overall.

LED units can run for long durations with steady performance, saving money and improving long-term planning.

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

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

Types of LED Emergency Lights

• Maintained units: Stay lit during both normal operation and outages. Suitable for theatres 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 uniform lighting that stay visible in low-light conditions, directing people quickly to exits.


• Bulkheads: These are hard-wearing fittings for exposed service areas, designed to survive heavy use.

Meeting Safety Standards with Proper Setup

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

This includes placing them near exit points, and ensuring they cover essential areas such as high-risk sections.

Newer models often come with automatic self-checking that track performance, helping to ease maintenance scheduling.

Practical Gains for Facility Operators and Occupants

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

LED systems can be retrofitted 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 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 designed to match standard fire systems, but check specifications first.

Is it worth choosing a self-test version?

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

What brightness level should escape routes have?

Lighting must meet minimum lux standards, and reputable LEDs are factory-set to comply.