The Role of LED Emergency Lights During Power Outages

In the event of mains power failure, LED emergency lights illuminate escape paths to help staff leave the premises safely.

These lights turn on instantly and shine without flicker, ensuring stable illumination during emergencies.

Unlike older fittings, LEDs maintain output over time, preventing irregular lighting in hallways, stairwells, or open areas.

Advantages of Replacing Traditional Emergency Lights with LEDs

Older setups often use bulbs that wear quickly and are inefficient, increasing both energy use.

LED emergency lights last many hours, keeping output consistent with fewer inspections.

Even though these lights typically activate during tests or power cuts, their energy efficiency helps reduce bills over time.

Thanks to their compact form, they resist damage, making them ideal for environments subject to frequent testing.

Popular LED Emergency Lighting Formats

• Maintained: Stay lit at all times and are used in public zones where constant light is required.


• Non-maintained: Activate only when power fails. These are common in staff rooms.


• Exit signage: Clear, bright signs that show safe paths even in darkness, helping people exit efficiently.


• Bulkheads: Tough, weather-resistant lights for service routes, including exterior staircases.

Meeting Standards for Emergency Lighting

Correct installation and scheduled inspection are essential to meet safety standards such as BS 5266.

This includes installing lights near escape routes and ensuring they light high-risk locations.

Many modern units now include integrated testing, providing early fault alerts and reducing manual effort.

LED Emergency Lighting for Smarter Fire Planning

LED emergency lights offer steady light output, minimal maintenance, and ease of integration with existing fire systems.

These fittings also cut long-term costs, making them a practical investment in safety systems.

FAQs

What is the typical lifespan of LED emergency lighting?

Most units last well beyond traditional fittings before battery or driver replacement are needed.

Should they be installed by professionals?

Yes, installation should be handled by a trained contractor to meet British Standards and ensure safety.

Can these lights be added to older systems?

Many LED emergency units are backward compatible, but check specifications first.

Is the self-testing option useful?

Yes, built-in checks help improve reliability, particularly in multi-zone buildings.

What brightness level is needed for emergency paths?

Most LED units meet legal illumination thresholds for escape route lighting.