Emergency Lighting Duration Requirements in the UK: 60-Minute vs 180-Minute Guide

In the UK, the duration of emergency lighting depends on the type of premises and its use. Here’s a breakdown:

Standard Duration Requirements:

• 60-minute duration: Typically used in workplaces where evacuation is expected to be quick, and re-occupation is unlikely until mains power is restored.
• 180-minute (3-hour) duration: Required in places where people sleep (e.g., hotels, hospitals, residential buildings) or in premises open to the public (e.g., theatres, shopping centres). Also required if evacuation might be delayed or if the premises might need to be reoccupied immediately after a power failure.

Regulations and Guidance:

• BS 5266-1:2016: British Standard for Emergency Lighting sets out that most commercial premises should have at least a 1-hour system, but 3-hour systems are recommended, especially for public spaces and residential buildings.
• Fire Safety Order 2005: Requires that emergency lighting is adequate for safe evacuation.

Most Common Practice:

• 3-hour emergency lighting is the most commonly specified in commercial and public buildings to cover both evacuation and potential reoccupation.

Do you need help determining the exact requirement for your specific premises or application? Get in touch.