Emergency lighting installation is a critical component of fire safety in commercial buildings, ensuring that in the event of a power failure, occupants can still find their way safely out of the premises. Whether caused by a fire, power outage, or system failure, sudden darkness can lead to panic, confusion, and delay in evacuating a building. Emergency lighting mitigates this risk by automatically illuminating escape routes, fire exits, stairwells, corridors, and high-risk areas, allowing people to evacuate quickly and safely.
At FireRite, our emergency lighting installation service is fully compliant with British Standards, particularly BS 5266-1, which sets out the code of practice for the emergency lighting of premises. Our process begins with a site survey and risk assessment to determine the correct type, placement, and coverage needed. We consider the layout, usage, occupancy levels, and fire safety strategy of the building to design an emergency lighting system that meets both regulatory and operational needs. We install a wide range of solutions including non-maintained, maintained, self-contained, and central battery systems, depending on the size and complexity of your premises.
Installing emergency lighting offers numerous benefits to businesses. First and foremost, it helps ensure legal compliance under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Failure to install adequate emergency lighting can result in fines, enforcement action, and increased liability in the event of an incident. It also enhances the overall safety and confidence of employees, visitors, and customers. Well-lit escape routes reduce the likelihood of trips, falls, and injuries during evacuations. In addition, emergency lighting supports business continuity by protecting assets, minimising operational disruption, and reducing insurance risks. For commercial landlords, properly installed emergency lighting also strengthens tenant trust and supports lease compliance obligations.
Emergency lighting maintenance is essential to ensure your system will operate effectively during an emergency. Like any other life safety system, emergency lighting must be regularly tested, inspected, and maintained to comply with UK regulations and standards. Over time, emergency light fittings can become damaged, batteries can degrade, or bulbs can fail, leaving parts of your premises vulnerable in the event of a power outage or fire. Regular maintenance helps ensure that your system performs exactly as intended when it is needed most.
FireRite offers a complete emergency lighting maintenance service, in accordance with BS 5266-1 and BS EN 50172. Our qualified engineers carry out both monthly function tests and annual full-duration tests, as required by law. The monthly test checks that lights illuminate correctly when mains power is switched off, while the annual test ensures the system can operate for its full rated duration—typically three hours. We also inspect all fittings for signs of damage or obstruction, ensure signage is visible and well-lit, and check battery performance. A full maintenance report and service record are provided after each visit, and any faults are identified and resolved promptly.
The benefits of regular emergency lighting maintenance go far beyond compliance. A well-maintained system ensures peace of mind, demonstrating a proactive approach to health and safety. It supports insurance claims and legal defence in the event of a fire-related incident. It also helps to identify potential problems early, reducing the cost of repairs and minimising system downtime. For employers, building managers, and landlords, emergency lighting maintenance is a simple and effective way to fulfil legal duties and keep building occupants safe in critical situations.
Emergency lighting compliance is a legal requirement for nearly all non-domestic buildings in the UK. It is not enough to simply have emergency lighting in place; it must be fit for purpose, correctly positioned, regularly tested, and well-documented. Many buildings, especially older ones or those that have undergone changes, may unknowingly fall short of the current standards. An emergency lighting compliance survey ensures that your system is fully aligned with the latest legislation and provides effective coverage in the event of an emergency.
FireRite’s emergency lighting compliance surveys are carried out by experienced fire safety professionals who understand both the regulatory landscape and the practical challenges businesses face. During the survey, we assess the type and condition of all emergency light fittings, check for adequate coverage of escape routes, emergency exits, and high-risk areas, and ensure all signage is illuminated and clearly visible. We also evaluate whether the system matches the current layout of the building and occupancy levels. The survey includes a detailed compliance report highlighting any deficiencies, alongside recommendations for upgrades, replacements, or layout improvements.
The importance of maintaining emergency lighting compliance cannot be overstated. Non-compliance can result in fines, legal action, or refusal of insurance claims. More importantly, it puts lives at risk during a power failure or fire. A compliance survey helps businesses meet their obligations under the Fire Safety Order, reduce their legal exposure, and improve the effectiveness of their overall fire safety strategy. It also provides peace of mind to staff, clients, and visitors that the building is equipped to handle emergencies. Whether you are a facilities manager, business owner, or landlord, ensuring your emergency lighting is compliant is a critical part of managing your premises responsibly.
