The Role of LED Emergency Lights During Power Outages

In the event of a power cut, LED emergency lights illuminate escape paths to help occupants leave the premises without delay.

These lights power up immediately and deliver even brightness, ensuring stable illumination during emergencies.

Unlike older fittings, LEDs retain colour balance 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 have short lives and are inefficient, increasing both operating costs.

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 minimises running costs over time.

Thanks to their compact form, they tolerate testing, making them appropriate for environments subject to vibration.

Popular LED Emergency Lighting Formats

• Maintained: Remain illuminated under normal and emergency conditions and are used in gathering spaces where constant light is required.


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


• Exit signage: Clear, bright signs that guide occupants even in smoke, helping people move safely.


• Bulkheads: Tough, weather-resistant lights for external areas, including loading bays.

Ensuring Proper Setup and Testing

Correct installation and regular testing are here expected to meet safety standards such as BS 5266.

This includes installing lights near equipment areas and ensuring they cover necessary zones.

Many modern units now include automatic monitoring, providing early indicators and reducing time spent on testing.

Benefits for Facilities Using LED Emergency Lights

LED emergency lights offer consistent performance, lower upkeep demands, and ease of integration with existing fire systems.

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

FAQs

What is the typical lifespan of LED emergency lighting?

Most units last well beyond traditional fittings before any updates 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, self-monitoring systems 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.