In the UK, emergency lighting is a crucial aspect of building safety and is subject to regulations and standards to ensure its effectiveness. There are two main categories of emergency lighting in the UK: maintained and non-maintained. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two types of emergency lighting, their respective advantages and disadvantages, and the regulations that govern their installation and maintenance.
Maintained emergency lighting is a type of lighting that is designed to operate continuously, both during normal operation and in the event of a power failure. This means that the lights are always on, powered by the mains electricity supply, and are therefore suitable for areas that require constant illumination, such as stairwells and corridors. Maintained emergency lighting typically includes battery backup to ensure that the lights will continue to operate in the event of a power outage.
Non-maintained emergency lighting, on the other hand, is designed to operate only in the event of a power failure. These lights are not illuminated during normal operation and are powered by a backup battery and are designed for use in areas that do not require constant illumination, such as offices and meeting rooms. Non-maintained emergency lights are generally more cost-effective to install and maintain, as they are not in use unless an emergency occurs.
Both maintained and non-maintained emergency lighting are subject to regulations to ensure their effectiveness and reliability. The key regulation that governs emergency lighting in the UK is BS 5266-1:2016, which provides guidance on the design, installation, and maintenance of emergency lighting systems. This standard outlines the requirements for the location, brightness, and duration of emergency lighting, as well as the testing and maintenance procedures that must be followed to ensure that the lights are always ready to operate in an emergency.
In addition to BS 5266-1:2016, there are other regulations and standards that apply to emergency lighting in specific types of buildings, such as the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, which applies to all non-domestic premises and requires the responsible person for the building to ensure that the emergency lighting is suitable and maintained. There are also specific regulations for high-risk environments, such as healthcare facilities, which require additional measures to ensure the safety of patients and staff in the event of an emergency.
When it comes to choosing between maintained and non-maintained emergency lighting, there are several factors that should be considered. The first is the specific requirements of the building and its occupants. For example, in a building that is occupied 24/7, such as a hospital or care home, maintained emergency lighting may be more suitable, as it provides constant illumination and reduces the risk of confusion or panic in the event of an emergency. In contrast, in a building that is only occupied during regular working hours, non-maintained emergency lighting may be sufficient to provide the necessary illumination in an emergency.
Cost is another factor to consider when choosing between maintained and non-maintained emergency lighting. Maintained emergency lighting systems typically require more upfront investment and ongoing maintenance costs, as they are constantly in use and require regular testing and battery replacement. Non-maintained emergency lighting systems, on the other hand, are typically more cost-effective to install and maintain, as they are only used in the event of an emergency.
In conclusion, emergency lighting is a crucial aspect of building safety in the UK, and there are two main types of emergency lighting to choose from: maintained and non-maintained. Both types of emergency lighting are subject to regulations and standards to ensure their effectiveness and reliability, and the choice between the two should be based on the specific requirements of the building and its occupants, as well as cost considerations. By following the guidance provided by the relevant regulations and standards, building owners and managers can ensure that their emergency lighting systems are ready to operate effectively in the event of an emergency, providing essential illumination and helping to ensure the safety of all occupants.
