The Importance of LED Emergency Lights in Fire Events

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

Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs start instantly and give smooth 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 stairs.

Benefits of Upgrading to Modern LED Fittings

Older systems using fluorescent tubes often need regular upkeep and use more power overall.

LED units can run for tens of thousands of hours with limited degradation, cutting downtime and improving long-term planning.

Even during monthly function tests, their low consumption helps keep costs manageable.

Thanks to their non-fragile design, LED lights cope well with vibrations, temperature variations, 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 illuminate 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 smoky conditions, directing people quickly to exits.


• Bulkheads: These are hard-wearing fittings for external stairs, designed to last in harsh conditions.

Meeting Safety Standards with Proper Setup

To ensure full functionality, LED emergency lights must be installed and tested website according to BS 5266.

This includes placing them near escape routes, and ensuring they light up danger spots such as switchboards.

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

Why LED Emergency Lights Are a Smart Choice

Stable light output supports safe navigation during power loss, while resilience brings value to building owners.

LED systems can be integrated into existing safety setups with minimal rewiring 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 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 confirm wiring compatibility first.

Is it worth choosing a self-test version?

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

What brightness level should escape routes have?

Lighting must meet minimum lux standards, and reputable LEDs ensure compliant illumination.