British Standard BS 5266-1:2016 emergency lighting, the code of practice for the emergency lighting of premises states that building owners are required to install and maintain emergency lighting systems.
What is meant by an emergency lighting system is that any emergency exit or escape route must be lit to a minimum number of lux. Open areas are classed as the safest escape route during an emergency and are required to be lit by at least one lux. Emergency lighting for an escape route must also be lit by a minimum of one lux.
Where emergency lighting standards change is on stairwells where there is an increased chance of accidents. The law states a minimum of two lux is required to meet the British Standard criteria.
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How do
emergency lights work?
Normally lighting runs from the electric grid, but when the power goes off emergency lighting uses a battery as a backup power source. Also known as backup cells, the batteries can power an emergency light for at least four hours.
There are a few different types of emergency lights which are suitable for different applications, but two of the most common are maintained and non-maintained.
1. Maintained Emergency Lights
A maintained system works just like a standard light fitting would, however when the power goes off the light is still in operation.
2. Non-maintained Emergency Lights
These are not standard light fittings but instead when the power goes off in a building, non-maintained emergency lights switch on. It’s important to consider the position and number of units you require to meet emergency lighting installation regulations.
Shrewsbury Electricians design, install, and commission and maintain services for emergency lighting systems in Shrewsbury, Telford and throughout Shropshire. These are carried out to BS 5266-1:2016.
As well as fitting emergency lighting, you must keep a record of your emergency lighting maintenance, checking every light at least once a month and recording it in a log book.
If you’re looking for someone to show you exactly what you need to do to keep on top of your emergency lighting system in Shrewsbury, Telford or Shropshire as a whole, then get in touch with us or follow the guide below.
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What are the legal requirements for
emergency lighting?
For emergency lighting systems in Shrewsbury, Telford and Shropshire the following is a testing schedule in accordance with BS EN 50172.BS 5266-8 and BS 5266-1&8.
Daily Emergency Lighting Checks
Check that every one of your emergency lights are operation and that any LED indicators are lit and that the central power supply system is in operation. This information should be recording in your log book. If there are failures in your system, you will need to contact an emergency lighting specialist immediately.
Monthly Emergency Lighting Checks
Check all emergency lighting equipment is in good working order, that all the lamps and lights have been cleaned. Perform a test of your emergency lighting equipment by simulating a failure of power supply. Check once the mains supply is back on that all indicators are lit.
Annual Checks
Arrange for a competent and qualified electrician to perform a full test of the system. We offer maintenance contracts for emergency lighting, meeting the requirements of BS EN and BS standards.
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Other electrical
services
Shrewsbury Electricians we offer a wide range of support for our domestic and commercial clients in Shrewsbury and Shropshire:
Fuse board and consumer unit upgrades
Wiring, re-wiring and extension wiring in old and new buildings
Electric underfloor heating and air conditioning
Electric showers, boiler wiring and storage heaters
Customer testimonials
The team carried out various electrical works at our property all to high standard. We will be definitely using Shrewsbury Electricians again.
Shrewsbury Electricians carried out a test and inspection at my rental property, they arrived on time and were very friendly. I received the certificate the following day.
Very pleased with the job. All completed to a high standard. Professional workmen, both reliable and friendly. I would highly recommend Shrewsbury Electricians.
Choosing the best electrician to install emergency lighting
We’re usually able to make all callouts in a timely manner but Shropshire is a big county. On the rare occasion we turn work down, often because we couldn’t meet necessary timescale. When asked if we can name a trustworthy electrician in Shrewsbury to install emergency lighting, the answer is yes. But even so, they should keep in mind the following points.
