Emergency Lighting Design

The type of emergency lighting system that is best for you will depend on the specific requirements of your building. However, no matter what, your emergency lighting systems should meet the requirements of the relevant fire safety regulations. This is why it’s so important to work with a qualified Emergency Light System service provider, like BES Group, who will work with you to design the ideal Emergency Lighting System for your property.

There are two main types of emergency lighting systems:

• Self-contained emergency lighting systems
• Centrally supplied emergency lighting systems

Self-contained emergency lighting systems are the most common type of emergency lighting system, consisting of a battery-powered light fixture that is mounted on the ceiling or wall. These are typically used in areas with limited space, such as corridors and stairwells.

Centrally supplied emergency lighting systems are more complex than self-contained emergency lighting systems. They consist of a central battery bank that is connected to a network of light fixtures. When the power fails, the central battery bank automatically powers on the light fixtures. Centrally supplied emergency lighting systems are typically used in larger areas, such as office buildings and shopping malls.

As well as these two main types of emergency lighting systems, there are also several other types of emergency lighting systems available, including:

• LED emergency lighting systems
• Wireless emergency lighting systems
• Dali emergency lighting systems

LED emergency lighting systems use LED light bulbs, which are more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent light bulbs.

Wireless emergency lighting systems use radio signals to communicate with the central battery bank, which eliminates the need for wires.

Dali emergency lighting systems use a DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) protocol to control the light fixtures, which allows for more precise control of the lighting levels.

A functional test is used to check that the emergency light turns on when the power fails. This is usually done by disconnecting the power to the emergency light and then checking to see if it comes on.

A duration test is used to make sure that the emergency light will provide adequate illumination for the specified duration, most often 3 hours. This is carried out by disconnecting the power to the emergency light and then timing how long it takes for the light to dim to a specified level.

• BS 5266-1:2016 – Code of practice for the emergency lighting of premises. This standard provides guidance on the design, installation, testing, and maintenance of emergency lighting systems.
• BS EN 50172:2004 – Emergency escape lighting systems. This standard specifies the requirements for emergency escape lighting systems.
• BS EN 1838:1999 – Lighting applications. Emergency lighting. This standard specifies the requirements for emergency lighting luminaires.

How frequently you need to have your emergency light system tested depends on the type of emergency light you’re using and the location you’re in. However, as a general rule, most experts recommend testing emergency lights at least once a month and a full duration test at least every year.

• Building Survey: Our certified specialists assess your building’s size, layout, occupancy, and activities to identify fire risks and emergency lighting requirements.
• Regulation Check: We verify compliance with BS 5266-1 and other relevant regulations, ensuring legal protection and optimal safety.
• Consultation: We discuss your needs and preferences, tailoring the design to your budget, aesthetics, and operational flow.

• Exit Identification: We pinpoint all exits and internal escape routes, ensuring a clear and efficient evacuation path.
• BS 5266-1 Recommendations: We follow best practices, placing fixtures near exit doors, stairs, corridors, changes in direction, and other critical points.
• Additional Needs: Based on your consultation, we discuss and suggest additional locations for optimal safety and comfort during an emergency.

• Light Level Assessments: We calculate the required illuminance based on escape route size and expected user numbers, ensuring effective visibility.
• System Recommendation: We present optimal emergency lighting system options considering power source, duration requirements, and your budget.
• Choice of Technology: We offer a range of options, including LED, fluorescent, and self-contained emergency lighting units, tailored to your specific needs.

• Specialist Engineers: Our experienced electrical engineers meticulously install fixtures, wiring, and batteries, adhering to all safety regulations.
• Minimal Disruption: We plan and execute installations with minimal disruption to your daily operations, keeping your business running smoothly.
• Final Testing and Certification: We thoroughly test the system for functionality and ensure compliance with all safety standards.

We offer various types of ongoing maintenance including:

• Maintenance Contracts: We offer tailored maintenance contracts, ensuring regular testing, cleaning, and battery replacements for continuous system reliability.
• Emergency Testing Services: We schedule and conduct functional and duration tests as required, saving you time and hassle.
• Compliance Checks: We keep you informed of updated regulations and perform periodic compliance checks to guarantee your system remains legally compliant.