The Value of LED Emergency Lighting in Fire Protection

During electrical outages, strategically installed LED emergency fittings light up evacuation paths, helping occupants evacuate safely.

Unlike conventional fluorescent lights, LEDs turn on without delay and offer continuous illumination, which is vital during emergencies.

LEDs also preserve their brightness and colour integrity across their operating life, minimising lighting inconsistencies in areas such as stairwells and corridors.

Reasons to Upgrade to LED Emergency Lights

Many facilities still use traditional emergency lights with incandescent or fluorescent technology, which require frequent maintenance and are less energy-efficient.

LEDs are engineered to last thousands of hours, with limited output degradation. This helps facility managers reduce service intervals.

Although emergency fittings aren’t used constantly, energy consumption during charging and testing still contributes to overheads. LEDs have lower consumption, keeping running expenses lower over time.

Their solid-state design also withstands environmental stress and routine checks, reducing the risk of unexpected outages due to wear and tear.

Common LED Emergency Lighting Options

• Maintained fittings: Operate continuously under normal conditions and remain active during power loss. Used in hospitality areas.


• Non-maintained fittings: Only activate when mains power is lost. Suitable for commercial properties.


• Exit signs: LED exit signage ensures directional clarity even in low-light conditions. These are a requirement in regulated fire safety plans.


• Bulkhead lights: Designed for tough environments, bulkheads are robust and ideal for outdoor stairwells.

Ensuring Quality Installation and Standards Compliance

To ensure reliability from LED emergency lights, proper installation and scheduled inspection are vital.

Adherence to BS 5266 is mandatory to ensure safe coverage near emergency exits, fire points, and plant rooms.

Many LED units now include automated diagnostic functions that track battery health, reducing the time required for checks and improving reliability.

Practical Gains from LED Emergency Lighting

LED emergency lighting contributes to secure evacuation procedures and lower maintenance needs. Their adaptability makes them a sensible upgrade.

Lower power consumption also supports environmental goals, while consistent operation during mains failure enhances readiness in emergency planning.

FAQs

How long do LED emergency lights last?

High-quality LED fittings typically last several years before battery replacement is required.

Do they need specialised installation?

Yes, a competent professional should install them in line with BS 5266 to ensure safety.

Can they be used with older systems?

Many LED models are designed to work with existing wiring and control setups, though interface should be confirmed in advance.

Are self-test fittings worthwhile?

Yes, they reduce manual testing effort and are particularly useful for sites with infrequent inspections.

What brightness is appropriate for escape routes?

Reputable fittings meet the required standards for emergency illumination without the need for manual adjustment.