Emergency Lighting Requirements
Emergency lighting design, duration, lux levels, and testing requirements per BS 5266
Illuminance Requirements
BS 5266-1 specifies minimum light levels for different types of emergency lighting to ensure safe evacuation.
Minimum illuminance levels by area type
BS 5266-1, Table 1| Area Type | Min Illuminance | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Escape route (up to 2m wide) | 1 lux | 1 hr or 3 hr | Centre line at floor level |
| Open area (anti-panic) | 0.5 lux | 1 hr or 3 hr | Across the core open area |
| High-risk task area | 10% of normal | As required | Minimum 15 lux maintained |
| Sleeping accommodation | 1 lux on route | 3 hr minimum | Non-maintained permitted |
The uniformity ratio (max to min) on escape routes must not exceed 40:1.
System Types
Emergency lighting systems are classified by their power source and operating mode.
System types comparison
BS 5266-1, Section 5| System Type | How It Works | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|
| Self-contained (non-maintained) | Built-in battery, lights on mains failure only | Offices, shops, warehouses |
| Self-contained (maintained) | Built-in battery, lit at all times | Cinemas, theatres, licensed venues |
| Central battery (static) | Shared battery room, distribution wiring | Large commercial, hospitals |
| Central battery (maintained) | Shared battery, luminaires always lit | High-risk or critical buildings |
Self-Testing Systems
Testing and Maintenance
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 places responsibility for emergency lighting testing on the "responsible person" (usually the building owner or occupier). A competent person must verify the system at commissioning and carry out annual inspections.
Testing schedule
BS 5266-1, Section 12| Test | Frequency | Duration | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Function test | Monthly | 1-3 seconds | Check each luminaire operates on battery |
| Short duration | 6-monthly | 25% of rated | Verify battery capacity trend |
| Full duration | Annually | Full rated (1 or 3 hr) | Confirm entire system meets design |
After a full-duration test, the system needs 24 hours to fully recharge.
Recharge Time
Positioning Guidance
Emergency luminaires must be positioned at every mandatory location along escape routes. Corridor spacing depends on photometric performance — typically 8-12 m apart for standard fittings to maintain 1 lux. Always refer to the manufacturer's spacing data for the specific luminaire selected.
Ceiling Height Matters