LED-based emergency fittings are widely adopted in fire protection due to their ease of care, dependable output, and energy-saving operation.
How LED Emergency Lights Support Safer Evacuations
When the power goes out, LED emergency lights highlight routes clearly, helping individuals move towards safety without confusion.
Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs don’t delay and produce stable light. This is vital during a building exit when visibility is critical.
They also maintain light consistency throughout their life, avoiding inconsistent lighting in key areas such as hallways.
Why Replacing Legacy Emergency Lights with LEDs Makes Sense
Older systems using halogen bulbs often need frequent replacements and use more power overall.
LED units can run for tens of thousands of hours with steady performance, saving money and improving long-term planning.
Even during routine checks, their low consumption helps reduce energy usage.
Thanks to their non-fragile design, LED lights resist damage with vibrations, climate shifts, and ongoing testing.
Types of LED Emergency Lights
- Maintained units: Stay lit during both normal operation and outages. Suitable for public corridors where constant lighting is required.
- Non-maintained units: Only activate during a power cut. Often seen in office spaces where lighting is not always needed.
- Exit signage: LED signs with uniform lighting that stay visible in low-light conditions, directing people quickly to exits.
- Bulkheads: These are weather-resistant fittings for external stairs, designed to last in harsh conditions.
Compliant Installation and Testing Requirements
To ensure full functionality, LED emergency lights must be installed and tested according to BS 5266.
This includes placing them near critical zones, and ensuring they cover essential areas such as switchboards.
Newer models often come with self-test capabilities that alert to failures, helping to streamline audits.
Why LED Emergency Lights Are a Smart Choice
Reliable performance supports safe navigation during power loss, while longer lifespan brings value to building owners.
LED systems can be integrated into existing safety setups with little disruption and support environmental objectives through energy efficiency.
FAQs
- How long do LEDs for emergency use typically operate?
- Most models provide uninterrupted light for several years before component renewal 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 designed to match standard fire systems, but check specifications first.
- Is it worth choosing a self-test version?
- Yes, as it simplifies compliance, especially useful in multi-use facilities.
- What brightness level should escape routes have?
- Lighting must meet regulatory lighting levels, and reputable LEDs achieve this automatically.