Emergency Lighting for Commercial Properties: Why It Matters and What You Need to Know
When managing a commercial property, ensuring the safety of everyone who enters your premises should always be a top priority. While fire alarms and security systems often take centre stage, emergency lighting is just as critical — and, in many cases, a legal requirement.
So, what exactly is emergency lighting, and why is it essential for your business?
What Is Emergency Lighting?
Emergency lighting is designed to automatically activate when your normal lighting system fails — typically during a power outage. It illuminates escape routes, fire exits, stairwells, corridors, and other key areas to allow occupants to evacuate the building safely in an emergency.
There are various types of emergency lighting, including:
- Escape route lighting – Guides people out of the building to safety.
- Open area lighting (anti-panic lighting) – Reduces panic and helps people move safely in larger spaces.
- High-risk task area lighting – Ensures safety in areas where dangerous processes are taking place, allowing for safe shutdowns.
Is Emergency Lighting a Legal Requirement?
Yes — under UK and Northern Ireland legislation, emergency lighting is a legal requirement for most commercial buildings.
Specifically, it must comply with BS 5266-1, which outlines the code of practice for emergency lighting of premises. This standard ensures that buildings provide sufficient illumination to allow safe evacuation and support emergency response efforts.
In Northern Ireland, commercial property owners and duty holders are responsible for meeting the requirements set out in the Fire and Rescue Services (Northern Ireland) Order 2006 and the Fire Safety Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010.
In short, if your business has employees, visitors, or the public entering the premises, you are legally required to have a compliant emergency lighting system installed — and regularly maintained.
Why Emergency Lighting Is Critical
Aside from being a legal requirement, emergency lighting plays a life-saving role:
- Safe Evacuation: Helps occupants find exits quickly and calmly during an emergency.
- Reduced Panic: Maintains a level of visibility in large or crowded areas during blackouts.
- Compliance & Liability: Protects your business from legal action in the event of an incident.
- Insurance: Many insurance providers require evidence of compliant emergency lighting as part of coverage terms.
Why Choose Us?
At SR Fire & Security, we specialise in designing, installing, and maintaining fully compliant emergency lighting systems tailored to your premises.
We’re proud to be NSI Gold accredited and BAFE certified, ensuring our work meets the highest standards for safety and professionalism. We’ve installed emergency lighting in a wide range of commercial environments, from multi-unit apartment buildings and retail units to warehouses and office spaces.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Expert advice and system design tailored to your building layout
- Full compliance with BS 5266-1 standards
- Ongoing maintenance contracts to keep your systems working year-round
- Responsive, local team offering honest advice and competitive pricing
Our goal is simple: to keep your staff, customers, and property safe — and to make compliance hassle-free.
Get in Touch
If you’re unsure whether your emergency lighting is up to standard — or you need a new system installed — get in touch with SR Fire & Security today. We offer free site checks and can walk you through what your building needs to stay safe and compliant.
028 424 400 86
info@srfireandsecurity.com
www.srfireandsecurity.com