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 start instantly and emit flicker-free light. This is necessary during a building exit when visibility is essential.

They also maintain uniform brightness 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 fluorescent tubes often need frequent replacements and consume more electricity overall.

LED units can run for long durations with steady performance, reducing maintenance costs and improving long-term planning.

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

Thanks to their durable design, LED lights withstand tough conditions with vibrations, climate shifts, and ongoing testing.

Types of LED Emergency Lights

• Maintained units: Remain on during both normal operation and outages. Suitable for public corridors 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 uniform lighting that stay visible in dense conditions, directing people quickly to exits.


• Bulkheads: These are tough fittings for outdoor passageways, designed to resist the elements.

Compliant Installation and Testing Requirements

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

This includes placing them near escape routes, and ensuring they cover essential areas such as switchboards.

Newer models often come with built-in diagnostics that alert to failures, helping to streamline audits.

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 added 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 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 check specifications first.

Is it worth choosing a self-test version?

Definitely, as it simplifies compliance, especially useful in multi-use facilities.

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What brightness level should escape routes have?

Lighting must meet regulatory lighting levels, and reputable LEDs achieve this automatically.