How LED Emergency Lights Support Safer Evacuations

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

Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs switch on without lag and emit flicker-free light. This is vital during a building exit when uninterrupted lighting is important.

They also maintain light consistency throughout their life, avoiding dim patches in key areas such as stairs.

Why Replacing Legacy Emergency Lights with LEDs Makes Sense

Older systems using non-LED technology often need constant maintenance and are less efficient overall.

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

Even during monthly function tests, their low consumption helps limit wastage.

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

Which LED Emergency Fitting is Right for the Job?

• Maintained units: Remain on during both normal operation and outages. Suitable for public corridors 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 dense conditions, directing people quickly to exits.


• Bulkheads: These are hard-wearing fittings for exposed service areas, designed to resist the elements.

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 escape routes, 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 longer lifespan brings value to building owners.

LED systems can be integrated 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 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 compatible with standard fire systems, but confirm wiring compatibility first.

Is it worth choosing a self-test version?

For sure, as it reduces inspection effort, especially useful in large buildings.

What brightness level should escape routes have?

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