The Importance of LED Emergency Lights in Fire Events

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

Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs start instantly and give smooth light. This is crucial during an emergency escape when visibility is important.

They also maintain colour integrity throughout their life, avoiding dim patches in key areas such as hallways.

Why Replacing Legacy Emergency Lights with LEDs Makes Sense

Older systems using fluorescent tubes often need constant maintenance and consume more electricity overall.

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

Even during battery charging, 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: Remain on 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 low-light conditions, directing people quickly to exits.


• Bulkheads: These are weather-resistant fittings for external stairs, designed to survive heavy use.

Compliant Installation and Testing Requirements

To ensure proper performance, LED emergency lights must be installed and tested website according to BS 5266.

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

Newer models often come with built-in diagnostics that signal faults, helping to cut manual inspection time.

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 little disruption and support sustainability targets 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?

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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?

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 achieve this automatically.