Emergency lighting is an important aspect to your businesses fire safety that is often overlooked. In the event of a fire or a power cut, the normal source of illumination fails and can lead to sudden darkness and cause potential danger to occupants with panic or physical accidents. Emergency lighting is required to operate automatically and provide enough light to enable all the occupants to leave the premises safely.
It is the Responsible Person who is in control of the premises is also responsible for the emergency lighting, and should ensure they are aware of The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. They have a duty of care to the members of staff and public who will be using the building. As the Responsible Person of your business premises, you have the responsibility of the safety of the people in your building. If a power outage was to occur it is important to illuminate the escape routes, such as corridors and stairways, for an quick and efficient evacuation of the. Emergency lighting is also used to show where fire fighting and fire protection can be found.
British Standard - BS 5266 provides clear guidelines about the design and installation of emergency lighting. In 2016 BS 5266 changed. It is now more in line with the European standard, EN1838 however, the British version has been adapted to be more ‘local’. Although standards may not be law, they are best practice and should be followed in order to be compliant.
Maintenance is essential on your emergency lighting systems and should be carried out at regular intervals by a professional engineer. It is advised to have a maintenance contract in place with a competent compliance company so you can arrange routine inspections and also emergency repairs and alterations.