How LED Emergency Lights Support Safer Evacuations

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 an emergency escape when visibility is important.

They also maintain colour integrity throughout their life, avoiding inconsistent lighting in key areas such as exit zones.

Why Replacing Legacy Emergency Lights with LEDs Makes Sense

Older systems using halogen bulbs often need constant maintenance and use more power overall.

LED units can run for extended periods with steady performance, cutting downtime and improving long-term planning.

Even during battery charging, their low consumption helps keep costs manageable.

Thanks to their non-fragile design, LED lights withstand tough conditions with vibrations, temperature variations, and ongoing testing.

Which LED Emergency Fitting is Right for the Job?

• Maintained units: Stay lit during both normal operation and outages. Suitable for function halls 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 low-light conditions, directing people quickly to exits.


• Bulkheads: These are weather-resistant fittings for outdoor passageways, 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 exit points, and ensuring they highlight fire control equipment such as switchboards.

Newer models often come with automatic self-checking that alert to failures, helping to streamline audits.

Practical Gains for Facility Operators and Occupants

Consistent illumination supports safe navigation during power loss, while resilience 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 steady performance for several years before component renewal 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 consult your provider first.

Is it worth choosing a self-test version?

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

What brightness level should escape routes have?

Lighting must meet regulatory lighting levels, and reputable LEDs are factory-set to comply.