How LED Emergency Lights Support Safer Evacuations

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

Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs switch on without lag and emit flicker-free light. This is crucial during an evacuation when uninterrupted lighting is important.

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

Benefits of Upgrading to Modern LED Fittings

Older systems using fluorescent tubes often need constant maintenance and are less efficient overall.

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

Even during battery charging, their low consumption helps limit wastage.

Thanks to their non-fragile design, LED lights cope well with vibrations, temperature variations, and ongoing testing.

Types of LED Emergency Lights

• Maintained units: Stay lit during both normal operation and outages. Suitable for public corridors where constant lighting is required.


• Non-maintained units: Only power on 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 weather-resistant fittings for external stairs, designed to survive heavy use.

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 automatic self-checking that track performance, helping to ease maintenance scheduling.

Why LED Emergency Lights Are a Smart Choice

Consistent illumination supports safe navigation during power loss, while lower servicing requirements 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 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?

Definitely, as it reduces inspection effort, especially useful in low-maintenance environments.

What brightness level should escape routes have?

Lighting must meet legally required brightness, and reputable LEDs ensure compliant illumination.