The Importance of LED Emergency Lights in Fire Events

When mains electricity fails, 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 necessary during an emergency escape when uninterrupted lighting is important.

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

Benefits of Upgrading to Modern LED Fittings

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 limited degradation, saving money and improving long-term planning.

Even during battery charging, their low consumption helps reduce energy usage.

Thanks to their non-fragile design, LED lights cope well with vibrations, climate shifts, 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 outdoor passageways, 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

Reliable performance supports safe navigation during power loss, while resilience 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 component renewal is required.

Do they need professional installation?

Yes, a certified installer 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 designed to match standard fire systems, but consult your provider first.

Is it worth choosing a self-test version?

Yes, as it automates testing, especially useful in multi-use facilities.

What brightness level should escape routes have?

Lighting must meet minimum lux standards, and reputable LEDs achieve this automatically.