The Importance of LED Emergency Lights in Fire Events

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

Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs don’t delay and produce stable light. This is vital during a building exit when clear sight is essential.

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

Why Replacing Legacy Emergency Lights with LEDs Makes Sense

Older systems using non-LED technology often need constant maintenance and consume more electricity overall.

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

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

Thanks to their non-fragile design, LED lights cope well 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 theatres where constant lighting is required.


• Non-maintained units: Only power on during a power cut. Often seen in back rooms where lighting is not always needed.


• Exit signage: LED signs with strong contrast that stay visible in low-light 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 full functionality, LED emergency lights must be installed and tested according to BS 5266.

This includes placing them near critical zones, and ensuring they light up danger spots such as high-risk sections.

Newer models often come with automatic self-checking that track performance, helping to cut manual inspection time.

Practical Gains for Facility Operators and Occupants

Consistent illumination 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 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 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 ensure compliant illumination.