Protect the things that matter. Sygma provides comprehensive business security, fire systems and electrical services. Contact us for a quote today.
Drop us an email
You will receive a reply from us shortly
Request a callback
One of our representatives will reach out to you
Send us your enquiry
Our professionals will get back to you
Sygma Fire, Security & Electrical
Emergency Lighting Systems
Types of Emergency Lighting Systems
Escape
Escape lighting is designed to illuminate escape routes and provide occupants with a clear exit path.
High amounts of smoke caused by a fire can severely reduce visibility even if the primary lighting system remains functional. Smoke also forces occupants to stay low to the ground which can cause further disorientation and make navigation difficult as regular visual cues used may not be visible.
In addition to lighting, additional luminary signs can be used to direct people to the nearest exit.
Escape lighting should be installed along corridors and stairways as well as around the location of doors and fire exits. Crucial safety equipment such as fire should also be covered.
Open Area
Open area, sometimes known as “anti-panic” lighting systems are used within buildings with high numbers of people and large open areas, for example train stations and shopping centres. Visibility may be reduced but escape routes and fire exits will still be identifiable.
Standby lighting helps to reduce panic that may be caused by total darkness, especially in public buildings which attract high numbers of visitors, most of whom will be unfamiliar with the building layout.
High-Risk Task Area
Used within high-risk environments during emergencies. Provides lighting for emergency personnel to carry out essential procedures and identify any equipment which needs to be turned off in the event of an emergency.
Why Choose Sygma?
Types of Batteries
Self-Contained
Self-contained units contain their own power supply with internal batteries and functions as independent sources of light. These are the most widely used form of emergency lighting, commonly seen attached to a wall or ceiling to illuminate key areas of the building.
Relatively quick and easy to install as all essential components are fitted within the unit. This allows greater flexibility during installation as location will not be restricted by cables or distance from a central power supply.
The downside is that these units have limited lamp power and a shorter battery life, meaning they are not suitable for hazardous environments. The cost of periodic testing may be higher than a central system.
Central Battery System
Connected to central power supply meaning they can not function independently. The unit includes the lamp however a central battery and charger will be located remotely.
Central systems are less expensive and have a longer battery life. However, this system will often require a battery cabinet and separate wiring which makes them less flexible and more difficult to install. Regular battery maintenance will be required and the system will not function if the central battery is damaged.
Installation
A fire risk assessment should be completed to ensure adequate emergency lighting has been provided. Professional assessment will allow for all building variables to be taken into account, such as the variation in lighting conditions between different areas of the building, building function and risk to occupants.
It is essential that certain areas and building features are covered. These include: exit doors, escape routes, corridor intersections, escape signs, stairways and changes to floor level, windowless rooms, toilets larger than 8m², safety equipment, lifts.
Rooms with large windows which benefit from high amounts of borrowed light from an external source may not require emergency lighting, whereas dimly lit corridors or stairwells which do not receive lighting from an external source will require some form of lighting.
Time of occupancy must also be considered. Buildings occupied at night by the public will always require some form of emergency lighting, even when borrowed light is present. This is because the general public may not be familiar with the building layout and may include individuals who are visually impaired.
However, if the premise is only occupied by staff who are familiar with the building, and the building has a clear escape path then borrowed lighting may be adequate, even during the night. Small (up to 60 people) and medium (up to 300 people) buildings can utilize borrowed light but large buildings (over 300) must use some form of emergency lighting.
FAQs
Key questions about Emergency Lighting Systems.
What is emergency lighting and why do I need it?
What British standards and legislation apply to emergency lighting?
Where must emergency lighting be installed?
What types of emergency lighting systems are available?
There are several types of systems:
• Escape lighting for illuminating exit routes
• Open‑area (anti‑panic) lighting for large spaces
• High‑risk task area lighting for zones with hazards where tasks must be safely shut down
Systems may be maintained (on continuously) or non‑maintained (activated on power failure).
How often should emergency lighting be tested and maintained?
Still have questions?
Reach out to our Emergency Lighting specialists today.