LED-based emergency fittings are increasingly used in fire protection due to their ease of care, steady output, and efficient operation.
How LED Emergency Lights Support Safer Evacuations
When the power goes out, LED emergency lights brighten routes clearly, helping occupants move towards safety without confusion.
Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs start instantly and produce stable light. This is vital during a building exit when visibility is critical.
They also maintain light consistency throughout their life, avoiding uneven coverage in key areas such as hallways.
Why Replacing Legacy Emergency Lights with LEDs Makes Sense
Older systems using non-LED technology often need regular upkeep 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 cope well 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 back rooms where lighting is not always needed.
- Exit signage: LED signs with strong contrast that stay visible in smoky 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 highlight fire control equipment such as plant rooms.
Newer models often come with self-test capabilities that alert to failures, helping to cut manual inspection time.
Practical Gains for Facility Operators and Occupants
Stable light output 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 straightforward installation 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 battery or circuit replacement is required.
- Do they need professional installation?
- Yes, a qualified electrician 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 built to fit standard fire systems, but confirm wiring compatibility first.
- Is it worth choosing a self-test version?
- For sure, as it automates testing, especially useful in large buildings.
- What brightness level should escape routes have?
- Lighting must meet minimum lux standards, and reputable LEDs are factory-set to comply.