Emergency lighting refers to battery-backed lighting devices that come on automatically when a building experiences a power outage. This includes both emergency escape lighting, which provides illumination to help occupants evacuate, and standby lighting, which allows normal activities to continue in the event of a power failure.

Emergency Escape Lighting: Ensures that escape routes are illuminated.

Escape Route Lighting: Highlights paths to exits.

Open Area Lighting: Also known as anti-panic lighting, it is used in larger spaces to reduce panic.

High-Risk Task Area Lighting: Ensures the safety of individuals involved in potentially dangerous processes.

Several regulations and standards apply, including:

• The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005: Requires appropriate fire safety measures, including emergency lighting.
• BS 5266-1:2016: Provides guidance on the design, installation, and maintenance of emergency lighting.
• Building Regulations (England and Wales) Approved Document B: Specifies requirements for fire safety in buildings.

The Responsible Person (often the building owner or manager) is accountable for ensuring that emergency lighting systems are installed, maintained, and regularly tested to comply with safety regulations.

Risk Assessment: Understanding the specific needs of the building and its occupants.

Coverage: Ensuring all escape routes and high-risk areas are adequately lit.

Duration: Making sure that the emergency lighting can function for the required period.

Compliance: Adhering to relevant standards and regulations.