When it comes to workplace safety, emergency lighting is one of the most crucial — and often overlooked — elements. Whether you run a warehouse, office, retail space, or hospitality venue, having compliant emergency lighting in place is not just best practice — it’s a legal requirement under UK fire safety regulations.

In this article, we’ll explain what emergency lighting is, what the law says about it, and why ensuring your system is up to standard could make a critical difference in an emergency.

What Is Emergency Lighting?

Emergency lighting is a backup lighting system that automatically activates when your building's mains power fails. It’s designed to provide enough light to:

• Safely guide people out of the building

• Illuminate escape routes and exits

• Light up key safety features (like fire extinguishers or first aid stations)

There are several types of emergency lighting, including:

• Emergency escape lighting – guides occupants out of the building

• Standby lighting – allows normal activities to continue during short power outages

• High-risk task area lighting – used in areas where equipment shutdown is critical for safety

What Does the Law Say?

In the UK, emergency lighting falls under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The legislation requires that all non-domestic premises have adequate emergency lighting in place to allow for a safe evacuation in the event of a power failure or fire.

Key legal responsibilities include:

✅ A Fire Risk Assessment

Every business must carry out a fire risk assessment to determine what type and extent of emergency lighting is needed.

✅ Regular Testing and Maintenance

Emergency lighting must be tested monthly (a short functional test) and annually (a full-duration test). Records should be kept of all tests and inspections.

✅ BS 5266-1:2016 Compliance

This British Standard sets out the code of practice for emergency lighting systems in buildings, including where fittings should be placed, how long they should operate (typically 3 hours), and how bright they must be.

Failing to meet these standards can lead to prosecution, invalidated insurance, and — most importantly — compromised safety.

Why It Matters for Your Business

🔹 1. Staff and Customer Safety

In an emergency, panic and disorientation can escalate quickly. Emergency lighting ensures people can exit the building safely, even if visibility is poor or the power is out.

🔹 2. Legal Compliance and Peace of Mind

Maintaining a compliant system protects you legally and ensures you meet the expectations of fire officers, insurers, and health and safety inspectors.

🔹 3. Reduced Liability in the Event of an Incident

If a fire or power outage occurs and someone is injured due to inadequate lighting, your business could be held liable. A well-maintained emergency lighting system demonstrates due diligence.

🔹 4. Business Continuity

Even minor power cuts can cause chaos in commercial settings. Emergency lighting keeps critical areas visible so essential operations can be paused or evacuated safely.

Common Issues We See in Commercial Properties

• Emergency lights not tested regularly

• Battery back-up units not functioning

• Incorrect placement of fittings

• Lack of emergency signage or poorly illuminated exit routes

• Outdated or non-compliant installations

How We Can Help

At JCE Contracting Ltd, we work with commercial clients across sectors to design, install, test, and maintain fully compliant emergency lighting systems.

Whether you need:

• A full emergency lighting installation for a new-build

• An upgrade to meet current regulations

• Scheduled monthly or annual testing

• Emergency lighting integrated with your fire alarm or smart building system

…our qualified electricians can ensure your premises stay safe, legal, and ready for anything.