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 switch on without lag and produce stable light. This is crucial during an emergency escape when visibility is essential.

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 non-LED technology often need constant maintenance and use more power overall.

LED units can run for long durations 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 withstand tough conditions with vibrations, climate shifts, and ongoing testing.

Types of LED Emergency Lights

• Maintained units: Remain on during both normal operation and outages. Suitable for public corridors where constant lighting is required.


• Non-maintained units: Only power on during a power cut. Often seen in storage areas where lighting is not always needed.


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


• Bulkheads: These are tough fittings for external stairs, designed to survive heavy use.

Meeting Safety Standards with Proper Setup

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

This includes placing them near critical zones, and ensuring they light up danger spots such as plant rooms.

Newer models often come with self-test capabilities that track performance, helping to cut manual inspection time.

Practical Gains for Facility Operators and Occupants

Reliable performance supports safe navigation during power loss, while resilience brings value to building owners.

LED systems can be added into existing safety setups with straightforward installation and support sustainability targets through energy efficiency.

FAQs

How long do LEDs for emergency use typically operate?

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 built to fit standard fire systems, but confirm wiring compatibility first.

Is it worth choosing a self-test version?

click here

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

What brightness level should escape routes have?

Lighting must meet legally required brightness, and reputable LEDs ensure compliant illumination.