Does emergency lighting in my business have to meet BS5266?

08 Apr Does emergency lighting in my business have to meet BS5266?

In case of a blackout, urgent situation or even natural disaster, it pays to have an emergency lighting system, which can ensure the health and safety of both members of staff and the general public.

Any workplace where artificial lighting is installed must have an emergency lighting system, which should adhere to BS 5266-1:2011. But what does this code of practice for emergency lighting recommend?

The purpose of BS 5266-1:2011

“BS 5266-1:2011 gives recommendations and guidance on the factors that need to be considered in the design of, and the installation and wiring of, electrical emergency escape lighting systems, in order to provide the lighting performance needed for safe movement of people in the event of the supply to normal lighting failing.”

In addition to promoting a wider understanding of the different types of emergency lighting systems available and their correct application, the BS 5266-1:2011 also attempts to encourage uniformity. This is based on providing adequate safety to people if a property’s artificial lights go out as well as having due regard to the hazard level and degree of familiarity of occupants with particular premises.

What’s more, BS 5266-1:2011 recognises that an important function of emergency lighting is to make possible the immediate location and operation of fire alarm call points and fire fighting equipment. Another is to minimise the chance of panic in enclosed spaces, such as lifts.

The responsibilities of BS 5266-1:2011

BS 5266-1 includes reference to a ‘responsible person’, who has control, or a degree of control, over the business premises or the fire-prevention systems within the premises.

UK legislation states that this person must “carry out risk assessments and take such precautions as to ensure as far as reasonably practicable the safety of the occupants. These measures include the provision of safe means of escape, including emergency routes and exits, together with, where necessary, signs indicating them.

“Adequate illumination needs to be provided, together with emergency lighting of sufficient intensity in case of failure of the normal lighting.” BrightLec can help you fulfil this duty, as we install emergency lighting systems in accordance with BS 5266-1.

Emergency lighting from BrightLec

Along with emergency lighting to BS5266, BrightLec can also install CCTV systems, intruder alarms, additional sockets, and many more electrical services in commercial, industrial, and domestic settings. We are ICEIC approved contractors and only use the highest standard of materials too.