The Importance of LED Emergency Lights in Fire Events

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

Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs don’t delay and produce stable light. This is vital during a building exit when uninterrupted lighting is important.

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

Why Replacing Legacy Emergency Lights with LEDs Makes Sense

Older systems using non-LED technology often need regular upkeep 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 activate during a power cut. Often seen in back rooms 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 proper performance, LED emergency lights must be installed and tested according to BS 5266.

This includes placing them near escape routes, and ensuring they highlight fire control equipment such as plant rooms.

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

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 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 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 designed to match 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 minimum lux standards, and reputable LEDs are factory-set to comply.