How LED Emergency Lights Support Safer Evacuations

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

Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs start instantly and produce stable light. This is necessary during a building exit when visibility is critical.

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

Why Replacing Legacy Emergency Lights with LEDs Makes Sense

Older systems using non-LED technology often need frequent replacements and consume more electricity overall.

LED units can run for tens of thousands of hours with limited degradation, reducing maintenance costs and improving long-term planning.

Even during routine checks, their low consumption helps limit wastage.

Thanks to their durable design, LED lights resist damage 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 function halls 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 uniform lighting that stay visible in smoky conditions, directing people quickly to exits.


• Bulkheads: These are weather-resistant fittings for exposed service areas, designed to last in harsh conditions.

Meeting Safety Standards with Proper Setup

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

This includes placing them near exit points, and ensuring they highlight fire control equipment such as high-risk sections.

Newer models often come with built-in diagnostics that alert to failures, helping to ease maintenance scheduling.

Practical Gains for Facility Operators and Occupants

Reliable performance 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 little disruption and support low carbon operations 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 certified installer 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?

Yes, as it reduces inspection effort, especially useful in low-maintenance environments.

What brightness level should escape routes have?

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