Emergency lighting is classed as a primary life safety system which is required to assist occupants of any premises to evacuate in the event of an emergency.

Emergency lighting can and does save lives and it should be remembered that if artificial lighting is in the work place, then emergency lighting is a mandatory requirement.

The installation of a minimum level of emergency lighting is a legal requirement following assessment of both fire and means of escape risk.

Fire Precaution (Workplace) regulations 1997 states:

‘Emergency routes and exits must be indicated by signs, and emergency routes and exits requiring illumination shall be provided with emergency lighting of adequate intensity in the case of failure of their normal light source.’

Further to the above compliance with BS5266. Part 1/7/8. 1999 and the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) 1996 etc will also be required.