Emergency LED fittings has increased in use for its efficiency, minimal upkeep, and consistent performance during mains outages.
The Value of LED Emergency Lighting in Fire Protection
During electrical outages, strategically installed LED emergency fittings light up evacuation paths, helping occupants evacuate safely.
Unlike conventional fluorescent lights, LEDs turn on without delay and offer continuous illumination, which is vital during emergencies.
LEDs also retain their brightness and hue consistency across their lifespan, reducing lighting variations in areas such as stairwells and corridors.
Why LED Emergency Fittings Are a Sensible Update
Many facilities still use legacy emergency lights with incandescent or fluorescent technology, which wear out quickly and consume more power.
LEDs are engineered to last thousands of hours, with limited output degradation. This helps building operators schedule maintenance efficiently.
Although emergency fittings are mainly idle, energy consumption during charging and testing still contributes to overheads. LEDs have lower consumption, keeping running expenses lower over time.
Their solid-state design also withstands temperature changes and routine checks, reducing the risk of failure due to lamp faults.
Main Types of LED Emergency Lighting
- Maintained fittings: Operate continuously under normal conditions and continue during outages. Used in spaces with high footfall.
- Non-maintained fittings: Illuminate solely when mains power is lost. Suitable for commercial properties.
- Exit signs: LED exit signage ensures directional clarity even in dim conditions. These are a requirement in regulated fire safety plans.
- Bulkhead lights: Designed for outdoor spaces, bulkheads are weather-resistant and ideal for outdoor stairwells.
Ensuring Quality Installation and Standards Compliance
To fully benefit from LED emergency lights, proper installation and periodic validation are necessary.
Adherence to BS 5266 is recommended to ensure compliant placement near emergency exits, fire points, and plant rooms.
Many LED units now include self-testing functions that report faults, reducing the manual workload and offering early warnings.
Practical Gains from LED Emergency Lighting
LED emergency lighting contributes to reliable safety strategies and reduced upkeep. Their ease of integration makes them a low-disruption upgrade.
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Reduced energy use also supports environmental goals, while consistent operation during mains failure enhances peace of mind in emergency planning.
FAQs
- How long do LED emergency lights last?
- Well-built LED fittings typically last several years before component servicing is required.
- Do they need specialised installation?
- Yes, a qualified professional should install them in line with BS 5266 to ensure compliance.
- Can they be used with older systems?
- Many LED models are designed to connect to existing wiring and control setups, though compatibility should be confirmed in advance.
- Are self-test fittings worthwhile?
- Yes, they reduce manual testing effort and are particularly useful for sites with infrequent inspections.
- What brightness is appropriate for escape routes?
- Reputable fittings meet the required standards for emergency illumination without the need for manual adjustment.