How LED Emergency Lights Support Safer Evacuations

When mains electricity fails, LED emergency lights brighten routes clearly, helping individuals move towards safety without confusion.

Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs switch on without lag and produce stable light. This is vital during a building exit when visibility is important.

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 halogen bulbs often need constant maintenance and consume more electricity overall.

LED units can run for long durations with minimal loss, saving money 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, climate shifts, and ongoing testing.

Which LED Emergency Fitting is Right for the Job?

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


• Non-maintained units: Only illuminate during a power cut. Often seen in office spaces 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 external stairs, designed to survive heavy use.

Compliant Installation and Testing Requirements

To ensure proper performance, LED emergency lights must be installed and tested led emergency lighting 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 built-in diagnostics that signal faults, helping to streamline audits.

Why LED Emergency Lights Are a Smart Choice

Stable light output supports safe navigation during power loss, while resilience 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 automates testing, especially useful in large buildings.

What brightness level should escape routes have?

Lighting must meet legally required brightness, and reputable LEDs are factory-set to comply.