LED-based emergency fittings are increasingly used in fire protection due to their low-maintenance, steady output, and efficient operation.
How LED Emergency Lights Support Safer Evacuations
When the power goes out, LED emergency lights brighten routes clearly, helping individuals move towards safety without confusion.
Unlike fluorescent alternatives, LEDs don’t delay and produce stable light. This is vital during an emergency escape when visibility is critical.
They also maintain colour integrity throughout their life, avoiding inconsistent lighting in key areas such as stairs.
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 battery charging, their low consumption helps reduce energy usage.
Thanks to their non-fragile design, LED lights cope well with vibrations, temperature variations, 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 tough fittings for exposed service areas, designed to resist the elements.
Meeting Safety Standards with Proper Setup
To ensure legal compliance, LED emergency lights must be installed and tested according to BS 5266.
This includes placing them near escape routes, and ensuring they highlight fire control equipment such as plant rooms.
Newer models often come with built-in diagnostics that signal faults, helping to cut manual inspection time.
Why LED Emergency Lights Are a Smart Choice
Consistent illumination supports safe navigation during power loss, while resilience brings value to building owners.
LED systems can be retrofitted into existing safety setups with minimal rewiring and support sustainability targets through energy efficiency.
FAQs
- How long do LEDs for emergency use typically operate?
- Most models provide steady performance for several years before component renewal is required.
- Do they need professional installation?
- Yes, a certified installer 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 consult your provider 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.
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