Prioritising emergency lighting

proposed as part of wider reforms. It’s argued this should include increased emphasis on building safety. 

 

Emergency lighting that’s designed to activate automatically during a power failure helps people leave a building safely if there’s a fire. High quality design, installation, and maintenance are essential to make sure these systems work as intended. Regular checks on fixtures, fittings, and batteries help to keep people safe. 

 

Despite strengthening building regulations recent fires like the one at Somerset House highlight that all types of building are at risk of fire. 

 

There’s an enhanced Product Certification Scheme from the Lighting Industry Association (LIA) and Industry Committee for Emergency Lighting (ICEL). 

 

Launched in August, the updated Scheme moves from an endorsed model to a certified one. This provides more assurance about the quality and safety of emergency lighting products. 

 

In September ICEL also launched Phase 2 of its Competency Recognition Scheme. This provides recognition and validation for the skills of emergency lighting professionals to successfully design, install, and maintain systems. 

 

It’s based on six key areas: 

 

Emergency lighting systems must meet strict standards, including BS 5266, which provide detailed guidance on design, installation and maintenance. The regulations say the ‘responsible person’ for a building must ensure compliance. This includes making sure all emergency lighting systems are regularly tested to maintain their effectiveness. 

 

All business premises, including offices, factories, pubs and clubs, schools, hospitals and entertainment venues, must have emergency escape lighting. These requirements also apply to almost all residential buildings and structures including houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), blocks of flats and maisonettes. However, they’re not required for individual homes.