UK emergency lighting must comply with BS 5266-1. The regulations specify requirements for escape route lighting, open area lighting, and high-risk task area lighting. All commercial and public buildings require appropriate emergency lighting systems.
Emergency Lighting Buying Guide - BS 5266 Compliance
UK emergency lighting must comply with BS 5266-1. The regulations specify requirements for escape route lighting, open area lighting, and high-risk task area lighting. All commercial and public buildings require appropriate emergency lighting systems.
Quick Decision Summary
Use this when deciding between maintained and non-maintained emergency lighting systems.
- Best for: Facilities teams, contractors, and specifiers responsible for BS 5266-compliant emergency lighting.
- Avoid if: You are selecting decorative lighting only and do not need emergency compliance coverage.
- Recommendation: Prioritize compliant coverage and testability first, then optimize fitting type and operating mode.
Key Points to Remember
Understand BS 5266 emergency lighting requirements
Understand BS 5266 emergency lighting requirements
Choose appropriate system type (maintained or non-maintained)
Choose appropriate system type (maintained or non-maintained)
Calculate required duration and coverage
Calculate required duration and coverage
Ensure proper testing and maintenance compliance
Ensure proper testing and maintenance compliance
Emergency Lighting Regulations
Maintained vs Non-Maintained Systems
Maintained emergency lights operate continuously and remain illuminated during power failure. Non-maintained lights only illuminate during power failure. The choice depends on building type and requirements.
Duration and Coverage
Emergency lighting must provide minimum 1 hour duration (3 hours for certain building types). Coverage must illuminate escape routes, exits, and safety equipment locations to a minimum of 1 lux.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Assess Building Requirements
Determine emergency lighting requirements based on building type, occupancy, and escape route complexity. Consult BS 5266-1 for specific requirements.
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Choose System Type
Select maintained or non-maintained system based on building needs. Maintained systems are often preferred for commercial properties.
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Calculate Coverage
Ensure all escape routes, exits, and safety equipment are adequately illuminated. Minimum 1 lux required along escape routes.
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Plan Testing Schedule
Emergency lighting requires monthly functional tests and annual full duration tests. Ensure systems include test facilities and documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Commercial and public buildings require emergency lighting that complies with BS 5266-1. Requirements include escape route lighting, exit signs, and illumination of safety equipment. Duration must be minimum 1 hour (3 hours for certain building types).
Maintained emergency lights operate continuously and remain on during power failure. Non-maintained lights only illuminate during power failure. Maintained systems are often preferred for commercial properties for better visibility.
Emergency lighting requires monthly functional tests (30-second test) and annual full duration tests (full rated duration). All tests must be documented. Self-testing systems can automate monthly tests but annual tests still require manual verification.