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 produce stable light. This is crucial during an evacuation when uninterrupted lighting is critical.

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

Why Replacing Legacy Emergency Lights with LEDs Makes Sense

Older systems using fluorescent tubes often need constant maintenance and consume more electricity overall.

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

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

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


• Exit signage: LED signs with strong contrast that stay visible in dense conditions, directing people quickly to exits.


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

Meeting Safety Standards with Proper Setup

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 cover essential areas such as plant rooms.

Newer models often come with self-test capabilities that alert to failures, 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 added 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 reliable output for several years before component renewal 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 check specifications first.

Is it worth choosing a self-test version?

For sure, as it simplifies compliance, especially useful in large buildings.

What brightness level should escape routes have?

Lighting must meet legally required brightness, and reputable LEDs achieve this automatically.