Emergency lighting and escape lighting

Emergency lighting system

An emergency lighting system is lighting supplied from an independent source (battery or generator) that switches on automatically when the normal supply fails, so people can see to escape or to finish critical tasks safely.

It has three types: escape lighting, standby lighting (to continue normal work) and high-risk task area lighting.

Escape lighting for escape routes

Escape lighting makes sure that escape routes can be identified and used safely at all times.

• Illuminance: at least about 1 lux along the centre line of the escape route (0.5 lux for open areas), with a uniformity (max:min) not more than 40:1.
• Response time: 50% of the level within 5 s and full level within 60 s.
• Duration: usually 1 h minimum; 3 h for premises occupied at night or where immediate re-occupation is likely.
• Luminaire positions: near every exit door, at changes of direction, at stair landings (each flight should get direct light), near fire-fighting equipment and alarm call points, at changes of floor level, outside final exits.
• Exit signs: illuminated "EXIT" and directional signs visible from any point on the route.
• Supply: self-contained luminaires with their own batteries, or a central battery system with fire-resistant wiring.
• Maintenance: monthly function test and yearly full-duration test.

 [Room]──►corridor──►stairs──►EXIT
    ●         ●        ●        ●
  (emergency luminaires at doors,
   turns, stairs and final exit)