The Value of LED Emergency Lighting in Fire Protection

If the electricity goes out, strategically installed LED emergency fittings light up evacuation paths, helping occupants evacuate safely.

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

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

Why LED Emergency Fittings Are a Sensible Update

Many facilities still use legacy emergency lights with incandescent or fluorescent technology, which wear out quickly and consume more power.

LEDs are engineered to last thousands of hours, with limited output degradation. This helps facility managers manage upkeep more effectively.

Although emergency fittings are mainly idle, energy consumption during charging and testing still contributes to overheads. LEDs have lower consumption, keeping operating costs lower over time.

Their non-fragile build also withstands environmental stress and routine checks, reducing the risk of failure due to wear and tear.

Main Types of LED Emergency Lighting

• Maintained fittings: Stay illuminated under normal conditions and continue during outages. Used in hospitality areas.


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


• Exit signs: LED exit signage ensures clear visibility even in smoke-filled conditions. These are a requirement in regulated fire safety plans.


• Bulkhead lights: Designed for outdoor spaces, bulkheads are robust and ideal for car parks.

Ensuring Quality Installation and Standards Compliance

To fully benefit from LED emergency lights, proper installation and scheduled inspection are required.

Adherence to BS 5266 is essential to ensure compliant placement near emergency exits, fire points, and hazard areas.

Many LED units now include built-in monitoring functions that track battery health, reducing the need for manual testing and supporting maintenance planning.

Advantages for Facility Managers & Occupants

LED emergency lighting contributes to secure evacuation procedures and predictable servicing. Their compatibility with existing fire systems makes them a pragmatic upgrade.

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

FAQs

How long do LED emergency lights last?

High-quality LED fittings typically last several years before component servicing 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.