## **Emergency Lighting – UK Overview** Emergency lighting is a crucial life safety system designed to provide illumination during power failures. In the UK, it's governed primarily by **BS 5266-1:2016**, which outlines design, installation, and maintenance standards for emergency lighting systems in non-domestic premises. --- ### **Purpose of Emergency Lighting** - Ensure occupants can safely evacuate a building during a power failure. - Illuminate escape routes, signage, and high-risk task areas. - Support firefighting operations if needed. --- ### **Main Types of Emergency Lighting Systems** #### 1. **Self-Contained (Stand-Alone) Systems** **How it works:** Each luminaire contains its own battery and control gear. When the mains power fails, the battery takes over and provides illumination. **Pros:** - Simple to install and expand. - No central battery or control system required. - Lower initial cost. **Cons:** - Batteries must be maintained/replaced individually. - Not ideal for large or complex buildings. - Testing and maintenance can be time-consuming without automation. --- #### 2. **Central Battery Systems** **How it works:** A central battery (or bank of batteries) supplies power to all emergency luminaires through a dedicated circuit during power failures. **Pros:** - Easier centralized maintenance. - Longer battery lifespan (typically 5–10 years). - High performance and reliability for large buildings. **Cons:** - Higher upfront cost and installation complexity. - Requires space for battery housing and cabling infrastructure. - Full system failure if the central battery fails (unless redundant systems are used). --- #### 3. **Sustained (Combined) Luminaires** **How it works:** Combines a standard light source with a separate emergency light source (usually a battery-powered LED). It operates on mains under normal conditions and switches to battery power during failure. **Pros:** - Functions both as normal and emergency lighting. - Good for areas where constant illumination is needed. **Cons:** - Can be bulkier. - Slightly more complex than self-contained-only fittings. --- #### 4. **Maintained vs Non-Maintained Luminaires** - **Maintained:** Always on; uses mains power normally, switches to battery in a power cut. - *Best for*: Public areas like cinemas, theatres, etc. - **Non-Maintained:** Only illuminates during power failure. - *Best for*: Staff-only or well-lit areas during normal use. --- ### **Emergency Lighting Categories (BS 5266)** - **Escape Route Lighting:** For corridors, stairways, and exit routes. - **Open Area (Anti-Panic) Lighting:** Prevents panic and helps occupants reach escape routes. - **High-Risk Task Area Lighting:** Illuminates dangerous processes for safe shutdown. --- ### **Maintenance & Testing (Basic Overview)** Emergency lighting systems must be tested regularly to comply with BS 5266-1:2016 and ensure they function correctly in an emergency. The requirements differ slightly depending on the type of system. --- #### **General Testing (All Systems)** | **Test Type** | **Frequency** | **Details** | |---------------------|-----------------------|-------------| | **Monthly Functional Test** | Every month | Brief test (typically a few minutes) to ensure lights illuminate on power failure. | | **Annual Full Duration Test** | Every 12 months | Luminaires must operate for their full rated duration (usually 1 or 3 hours). | | **Visual Inspections** | Ongoing | Check for physical damage, obstructions, or signs of wear. | Automated testing systems are often used to log and report test results, especially in large or complex buildings. --- ### **Central Battery System Maintenance** Central battery systems require more specialist upkeep due to their size and critical function. Key elements include: #### **Battery Replacement Periods** | **Battery Type** | **Typical Lifespan** | |--------------------------|----------------------| | **Vented Lead-Acid** | 5–10 years | | **Sealed Lead-Acid (VRLA)** | 5–7 years | | **Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd)**| 7–10 years | | **Lithium-based (where used)** | Up to 10+ years (check manufacturer guidance) | > 🔧 **Best Practice**: Batteries should be replaced **proactively**, based on performance metrics and manufacturer guidance — not just failure. --- #### **Additional Testing Requirements for Central Battery Systems** - **Daily Visual Check** (for non-automated systems): - Indicators and meters on the central battery unit should be checked by a responsible person. - **Quarterly Inspection**: - Check all connections, ventilation, battery voltage levels, and cleanliness. - **Annual Load Test**: - Simulate a full power failure and ensure the battery sustains emergency lighting for the rated duration (usually 1 or 3 hours). > 🧯 Fire safety records should include logbooks of all inspections, test results, and maintenance actions.