How LED Emergency Lights Support Safer Evacuations

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

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

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

Why Replacing Legacy Emergency Lights with LEDs Makes Sense

Older systems using halogen bulbs often need regular upkeep and consume more electricity overall.

LED units can run for tens of thousands of hours with minimal loss, saving money and improving long-term planning.

Even during routine checks, their low consumption helps limit wastage.

Thanks to their non-fragile design, LED lights resist damage with vibrations, temperature variations, and ongoing testing.

Types of LED Emergency Lights

• Maintained units: Operate continuously 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 office spaces where lighting is not always needed.


• Exit signage: LED signs with clear graphics that stay visible in smoky conditions, directing people quickly to exits.


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

Meeting Safety Standards with Proper Setup

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

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

Newer models often come with self-test capabilities that track performance, helping to ease maintenance scheduling.

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 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 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 confirm wiring compatibility first.

Is it worth choosing a self-test version?

Definitely, as it simplifies compliance, 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.