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 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 halogen bulbs often need frequent replacements and are less efficient overall.

LED units can run for tens of thousands of hours 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 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 power on during a power cut. Often seen in storage areas 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 read more tested according to BS 5266.

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

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

Why LED Emergency Lights Are a Smart Choice

Consistent illumination supports safe navigation during power loss, while longer lifespan brings value to building owners.

LED systems can be added 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 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?

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 achieve this automatically.