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)

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

🔧 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.