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 give smooth light. This is necessary during a building exit when uninterrupted lighting is critical.

They also maintain uniform brightness throughout their life, avoiding inconsistent lighting in key areas such as exit zones.

Benefits of Upgrading to Modern LED Fittings

Older systems using non-LED technology often need constant maintenance and are less efficient overall.

LED units can run for extended periods with limited degradation, reducing maintenance costs and improving long-term planning.

Even during monthly function tests, their low consumption helps reduce energy usage.

Thanks to their solid design, LED lights cope well with vibrations, climate shifts, and ongoing testing.

Which LED Emergency Fitting is Right for the Job?

• Maintained units: Stay lit during both normal operation and outages. Suitable for theatres 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 low-light conditions, directing people quickly to exits.


• Bulkheads: These are hard-wearing fittings for exposed service areas, designed to survive heavy use.

Meeting Safety Standards with Proper Setup

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

This includes placing them near critical zones, 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 retrofitted 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 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 built to fit standard fire systems, but confirm wiring compatibility first.

Is it worth choosing a self-test version?

Yes, as it automates testing, especially useful in large buildings.

What brightness level should escape routes have?

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