What We Provide
Our team can install fire exit signs, bulkheads, LEDs, luminaires, and more. All components are designed to provide reliable illumination during power outages or emergencies, aiding in safe evacuation and visibility. We handle everything from initial installation to regular maintenance and testing, ensuring that all systems meet regulatory standards and function optimally when needed.
What is Emergency Lighting?
Emergency lighting is a crucial aspect of building safety and evacuation protocol. It’s a system of lights that automatically switch on when a building experiences a power outage. These lights are typically powered by a backup battery and are designed to illuminate escape routes, exits, and potentially hazardous areas to ensure occupants can safely evacuate the premises. This system is required in commercial buildings and must comply with various safety standards and regulations.
How Often Should Emergency Lighting Be Tested
Emergency exit signs, fire exit signs and luminaire systems should be tested regularly to ensure they are functioning correctly and will operate in case of a crisis. The frequency of testing can depend on local regulations, but generally, it is recommended every year. This test checks the battery life and light output over time. Any issues identified during these tests should be fixed promptly to maintain the system’s effectiveness.
Benefits of Backup Illumination
Backup illumination is an essential safety feature in many environments, providing a lit pathway during power outages. Its primary benefit is ensuring individuals can safely evacuate a building, reducing the risk of injuries and fatalities. Besides guiding people to exits, warning lights also illuminate safety equipment like fire extinguishers, making them easier to locate. In commercial settings, it can prevent business disruption by allowing some level of operational continuity. Additionally, installing backup lights is a compliance requirement under several health and safety regulations.
Get in Touch
At Ubitec, we understand the significance of emergency lighting and its role in preventing potential harm to people in the building. We can provide recommendations, designs, installations, and maintenance services for backup illumination systems within your commercial building. Contact our professionals for the installation of emergency exit signs, bulkheads, luminaires, fire exit signs, and more.
To get a free quote get in touch with us by calling 0121 454 9007 or filling out the form available on our contact page.
FAQs
How long should safety lights operate during an outage?
According to most safety standards, backup lighting should operate for a minimum of 90 minutes during an outage. This duration is typically enough time to ensure that all occupants can safely evacuate the building. Some regulations may require longer durations, especially in buildings with complex layouts or large numbers of occupants.
Are there legal requirements for businesses to install emergency lighting?
Yes, there are legal requirements for installing safety lights in many jurisdictions. Building codes and fire safety regulations often mandate backup lights for commercial, industrial, and public buildings. These laws are designed to protect occupants during emergencies, and failing to comply can result in fines or legal action, as well as increased liability in case of an incident.
How often should safety lighting be tested and maintained?
Safety lighting systems should be tested at least monthly and undergo a more thorough inspection annually. Monthly tests typically involve briefly activating the lights to ensure they function correctly, while annual maintenance includes a full discharge test to verify the battery’s ability to last the required duration. Our electricians can inspect your system annually.
Can LED lights be used for safety lighting?
Yes, LED lights are commonly used for backup illumination due to their energy efficiency, longevity, and durability. LED lights provide bright illumination and require less power, which extends battery life during an outage. Additionally, LEDs are more reliable and have lower maintenance costs compared to traditional options.
How does safety lighting integrate with other safety systems?
Safety illumination should be integrated with other systems, such as fire alarms and sprinkler systems, to provide a coordinated response during urgent situations. For example, when a fire alarm is triggered, backup lighting should automatically activate to illuminate escape routes. Integration ensures comprehensive safety coverage and helps in efficient evacuation and incident management.
What types of safety lighting should a business consider?
A business should consider several types of backup illumination systems, including fire exit signs, escape routes, standby, and high-risk task area lighting. Exit signs are essential for clearly marking exits, while escape route lighting helps illuminate paths to those exits. Standby maintains a level of illumination so normal activities can continue if the power goes out, and high-risk task area lighting provides adequate light in areas where dangerous tasks are performed. Ubitec’s professionals can install all types of systems to keep your business running.
