Out of all the security advice out there, fire safety is key. Having good guidance and a reliable fire security system can literally save people’s lives. Our fire risk assessment experts believe that emergency and exit lighting is pivotal in fire safety systems. They explain where it’s needed, which types of lighting are available, and provide some advice. Let me introduce you to emergency lighting and explain why are emergency lights provided in fire safety.

What is Emergency Lighting?

The British and European Standard BS EN 1838 explains “Emergency Lighting” as the common term used to refer to the equipment which is a contingency source of lighting when the supply of normal lighting fails.

Emergency lighting has two types:

(i) Emergency Escape Lighting

(ii) Standby Lighting

The lighting that facilitates the process of safe exit of people in case the normal supply experiences a failure, is known as Emergency Escape Lighting whereas, the lighting which exists to ensure that normal activities continue unabated in case the normal mains supply fails, is called Standby Lighting.

This guide distinguishes between the two forms of emergency lighting, by stating that Emergency Escape Lighting is part of a building’s fire protection mechanism, whereas the latter is not, unless it follows the similar design requirement and installation criteria as the emergency escape lighting. Judging from the fire safety protection point of view, it is determined that Emergency Escape Lighting is the more important form of emergency lighting, and this article will focus on that particular form of lighting from here onwards.

In the event of a fire, quick and efficient evacuation is essential to ensure safety. Part of having an effective evacuation plan has functional emergency lighting that will guide people to the exits.

Now let’s discuss why emergency lights are provided in buildings and their purpose. Understanding the importance of Emergency Lighting can help ensure that your building is up to code and prepared for an emergency.

Purpose of Emergency Lights that are Required in All Commercial Buildings

Emergency lights are essential to any commercial building’s fire safety system. According to the Fire Code, all commercial buildings must be outfitted with these particular types of lights that provide a safe means for occupants to navigate their way to a safe exit in the event of an emergency.

The lights feature a long-lasting battery that automatically turns on when the power is lost and lasts anywhere from 90 minutes to several hours—depending upon the size and type of battery used. They provide illumination in darkened hallways and stairwells, making it easier for people to find their way out of a burning building.

They are even equipped with backup batteries just in case of a total power failure. While not glamorous, emergency lights can help save lives during an emergency, which is why they are required in all commercial buildings according to Fire Code regulations.

Emergency Lights Provide What?

In the event of a power outage or fire, everyone must be able to evacuate the premises safely. Fortunately, emergency lights provide a safe exit for occupants during situations like these. Emergency lights are usually powered by an internal battery which triggers when regular power is no longer available. These lights automatically turn on and provide sufficient light for people to find their way out quickly and safely – making them essential in any building or home.

Additionally, many emergency lights are designed to be durable and require minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective source of lighting in the long term. All in all, having good quality emergency lights installed not only provides peace of mind but also safeguards against hazardous conditions when average electricity fails. Installing emergency lighting can be indispensable for ensuring occupant safety during emergencies.

Emergency lights are critical tools for providing safe exit routes during power outages and fires. They are usually powered by an internal battery that turns on once the primary power source shuts off. This allows enough time for the occupants to evacuate safely, even when visibility is low due to a lack of electric lighting.

Furthermore, these emergency lights are typically designed to be durable and require minimal maintenance over time – making them economical and practical options. Lastly, installing good-quality emergency lights can help reduce potential hazards while providing peace of mind that almost any situation can be managed if it should occur. In times like these, reliable lighting solutions such as emergency lighting can make all the difference in ensuring occupant safety and should not be overlooked when considering ways to protect your premises from unexpected disasters.

When Emergency Lights Should be Tested?

Emergency lights need to be tested regularly to make sure they are operating at peak efficiency. By law, emergency lights must be tested monthly and comply with health and safety regulations.

During this testing process, technicians should check all the emergency light system components, including the light controls, wiring, battery levels, lamps, and bulbs. Not only should the lights flash when activated by emergency power, but they should also become brighter when both flanks of each aisle are lit.

Furthermore, emergency light tests should insist that other critical areas, such as stairs, corridors, and public exit ways accessible to both staff and customers alike. Finally, any emergency lighting faults must be reported immediately. In contrast, untested emergency lights must not be used under any circumstances until they have passed all necessary tests and been declared safe for use again. In short, emergency lighting systems must be tested monthly to ensure they are in complete working order and comply with mandatory regulations concerning health and safety standards in commercial settings.

If An Emergency Light Is Not Working, It Should Be Replaced Immediately

In most commercial and public buildings, emergency lights are critical to keeping occupants safe during an emergency evacuation. Unfortunately, if the emergency light system isn’t routinely tested, malfunctions may occur and go undetected until it is too late.

If a single emergency light is not working, the whole system could fail if an unexpected power outage or emergency occurs. Therefore, if any occupants notice that a single emergency light is not functioning correctly, it should be replaced immediately to ensure that the entire system is always up-to-date and ready for use when necessary.

All components of this system should also be checked regularly for signs of wear and tear, loose connections, or other issues that could lead to malfunctions. By taking these simple steps, buildings can ensure they are always prepared for any potential emergency.

Occupants Should Familiarize Themselves with The Location of Emergency Exits

Knowing where fire emergency exits and lights are located in a building may save the lives of occupants in an emergency. Everyone in the building must be aware of their surroundings to stay safe. Regarding fire emergency exits, occupants should note any doors or staircases marked with fire exit signs, as these will help lead them out quickly and safely if a fire were to break out.

Emergency lighting is also critical; these unique lights can help guide fire safety personnel, allowing them to easily find their way around a dark building while they rescue people trapped inside. To increase safety even further, occupants should deploy fire safety accessories such as fire extinguishers and smoke alarms throughout the building. By getting familiar with fire instructions, locations of fire exits, and fire emergency lights, occupants can be prepared for the worst-case scenario and ensure that everyone stays safe during times of crisis.

Final Thoughts

The Fire Code requires emergency lights in all commercial buildings. Emergency lights provide a safe exit for occupants during a power outage or fire. Emergency lights must be tested monthly to ensure they are working correctly. If an emergency light is not working, it should be replaced immediately. Occupants should familiarize themselves with the location of emergency exits and lighting in their building.

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