How LED Emergency Lights Support Safer Evacuations

When the power goes out, LED emergency lights brighten routes clearly, helping occupants move towards safety without confusion.

Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs don’t delay and emit flicker-free light. This is crucial during an emergency escape when clear sight is critical.

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 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 reduce energy usage.

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

Types of LED Emergency Lights

• Maintained units: Stay lit 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 back rooms 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.

Compliant Installation and Testing Requirements

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 ease maintenance scheduling.

Practical Gains for Facility Operators and Occupants

Reliable performance supports safe navigation during power loss, while resilience 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 steady performance 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 check specifications 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 legally required brightness, and reputable LEDs are factory-set to comply.