The Importance of LED Emergency Lights in Fire Events

When the power goes out, LED emergency lights illuminate routes clearly, helping people move towards safety without confusion.

Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs don’t delay and give smooth light. This is crucial during an emergency escape when clear sight is essential.

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

Benefits of Upgrading to Modern LED Fittings

Older systems using halogen bulbs often need frequent replacements and use more power overall.

LED units can run for extended periods with minimal loss, cutting downtime and improving long-term planning.

Even during battery charging, their low consumption helps reduce energy usage.

Thanks to their non-fragile design, LED lights resist damage with vibrations, ambient changes, 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 illuminate during a power cut. Often seen in back rooms where lighting is not always needed.


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


• Bulkheads: These are hard-wearing 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 exit points, and ensuring they light up danger spots such as high-risk sections.

Newer models often come with built-in diagnostics that signal faults, helping to cut manual inspection time.

Practical Gains for Facility Operators and Occupants

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 low carbon operations through energy efficiency.

FAQs

How long do LEDs for emergency use typically operate?

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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 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.

What brightness level should escape routes have?

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