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Fire protection services

Emergency Lighting Installation & Servicing

Help people find escape routes, exits and essential fire safety equipment when normal lighting fails.

Fire Guard Services surveys, installs, commissions, tests, services and maintains emergency lighting for commercial, residential and public buildings.

Emergency lighting hanging from ceiling in corridor

Support to BS 5266-1:2025

Practical surveys, testing and maintenance

Why emergency lighting matters

Clear routes and safer decisions
when normal lighting goes out.

Emergency lighting operates from an independent power source when the normal supply fails, helping occupants move safely and locate exits, changes of direction, stairs, fire alarm call points and fire-fighting equipment.

Illuminates escape routes

Lighting helps people identify safe routes, stairs, level changes and final exits when mains lighting is unavailable.

Makes exits identifiable

Appropriate illuminated signs and luminaires support clear wayfinding during evacuation.

Highlights safety equipment

Emergency illumination helps people locate alarm call points, extinguishers and other essential safety equipment.

Supports compliance

A suitable, maintained system supports the responsible person’s duties for emergency routes and exits.

Complete emergency lighting support

From the first survey to ongoing testing and repairs.

We support emergency lighting throughout its working life, with recommendations based on the building, occupancy, escape strategy and fire risk assessment.

Site survey

We review the premises, escape routes, existing lighting, risk assessment and the areas that need emergency illumination.

System design

Luminaires, exit signs, operating modes and test facilities are planned around the building and its emergency arrangements.

Supply and installation

We supply and install suitable emergency luminaires and signs with careful attention to coverage and disruption.

Commissioning

The completed system is checked, function tested and documented so you understand its operation and testing arrangements.

Testing and servicing

We inspect each unit, confirm correct operation and illumination, test controls and complete the required duration test.

Repairs and records

Faults are recorded clearly, and our engineers can replace failed components or install additional units where required.

Inspection and testing

Routine checks and professional servicing work together.

Short functional checks help reveal obvious failures between service visits. The annual full-duration test confirms whether the batteries and luminaires can provide emergency illumination for their rated period.

Monthly function test

  • Operate the test facility or simulate mains failure
  • Check that every emergency lamp illuminates
  • Check indicators and signs for obvious damage
  • Record the test and report defects promptly

Annual full-duration test

  • Inspect luminaires, signs, batteries and controls
  • Test the system for its full rated duration
  • Confirm operation and suitable illumination
  • Document results and identify remedial work

Compliance context

Emergency lighting must be suitable, maintained and ready to operate.

Where emergency routes and exits require artificial illumination, the Fire Safety Order requires adequate emergency lighting. Fire safety measures must also be maintained in an efficient state, efficient working order and good repair.

The fire risk assessment should establish what is needed for the premises, taking account of its layout, occupants, escape strategy and the consequences of normal lighting failure.

Current code of practice

BS 5266-1:2025

BS 5266-1:2025 provides recommendations and guidance for the design, installation and wiring of emergency lighting systems. It replaced BS 5266-1:2016 in October 2025.

It covers emergency escape lighting, local area lighting and standby lighting. The appropriate solution must still be determined for the individual premises.

Our process

From survey to a documented, dependable system

We make emergency lighting work straightforward, with a clear scope, careful delivery and practical records.

01

Step 01

Understand the premises

We confirm the building layout, occupancy, escape arrangements, existing system and the work you need.

Initial guidance · Clear scope

02

Step 02

Survey and plan

We inspect the relevant areas and confirm the practical testing, installation or remedial plan.

Suitable solution · Confirmed timings

03

Step 03

Complete the work

Our engineers carry out the agreed testing, servicing, installation or repairs with care and minimal disruption.

Professional visit · Practical delivery

04

Step 04

Report and next steps

You receive the appropriate documentation and clear advice about faults, remedial work and future tests.

Clear records · Ongoing support

Need an emergency lighting survey or annual test?

Tell us about your premises and existing system for practical advice from our team.

What our clients say

Trusted fire safety support for businesses across the region

  • Fire Guard Services are always responsive to our requests and offer a friendly, professional service whenever they visit our offices and warehouse. Their communication with us is clear and they are always helpful while on site or on the phone. The service is efficient and the staff are knowledgeable.

    Scott Rutherford Health, Safety & Compliance Advisor CAMARA – Hertfordshire
  • Here at Paradise Wildlife Park, we have used Fire Guard Services for many years for all of our fire safety requirements and have always found their service to be reliable, accommodating and professional.

    Lynn Whitnall CEO Paradise Wildlife Park
  • Adam brings a wealth of experience in fire safety and provides clear explanations of what work needs to be done and why. I trust his expertise and it ensures that the property, my staff and our guests are safe at all times.

    Ian Crow General Manager Best Western Best Western Homestead Court Hotel
  • We have been using Fire Guard Services Ltd to manage the fire safety across all six of our branches, and their performance has been exceptional. From the initial installation of our fire alarms and emergency lighting to the ongoing extinguisher servicing, their team has demonstrated remarkable professionalism and reliability. Managing multiple sites can be a challenge, but Fire Guard makes it seamless. For any business looking for a trustworthy partner to handle multi-site fire protection, we would highly recommend the team at Fire Guard Services.

    Jenny Manager Dontel Roofing
  • As a busy School Business Manager it's important to have reliable and knowledgeable contractors to help keep the school safe for our children. Fire Guard Services always offer us peace of mind that all aspects of our fire security systems are maintained in line with regulatory requirements. They also offer value for money, quality services which demonstrates they understand the education sector.

    Sarah Murdoch School Business Manager Hillshott Infant School and Nursery Letchworth
  • We have been more than satisfied with the service we get since Fire Guard Services took over our contract. The guys are friendly and easy to work with and are always willing to answer any query we might have. We never have to wait too long for things to get repaired. We have a fully functioning fire alarm that is brand new and user friendly.

    Dylan Davies-Dowell Site Manager Falconer School Bushey
  • I have been working at St Albans Girls' School for 15 years, and Fire Guard Services have always been our go to contractor for fire safety. The team of engineers have always been helpful and make sure that we are compliant in all areas of fire safety. I would recommend Fire Guard Services as my first option. They have never given me a reason to look for an alternative contractor. May our strong relationship continue.

    Errol Taylor Premises Manager St. Albans Girls' School
  • Your engineers are always very helpful and clear with the advice they give me – would recommend your services to others.

    Phil Compliance Manager M & S Water Services
  • Harry was very helpful and thorough yesterday. It confirms my decision to move over to your company.

    Christos Neo Owner Neo Brothers, Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire
  • I just want to take the time to commend Adam on his professionalism. He is a credit to your company and is helpful, courteous and always gives the impression he is not trying to rip you off like other companies we have used. He is a bit like 'Ronseal' as he does exactly what is asked of him and doesn't need reminding.

    Iain Senior Business Manager Welcome Gym Chesham

Who we support

Emergency lighting for workplaces, residential buildings and public premises.

We support responsible persons, landlords, managing agents and facilities teams responsible for individual sites and multi-building portfolios.

Practical compliance support

Clear testing and maintenance records

We provide straightforward findings and documentation to support your fire safety management and help you act on defects promptly.

Automotive

Support fire safety across showrooms, workshops, storage areas and customer-facing dealership spaces.

Car Dealerships

Help protect high-value vehicles, workshops, staff areas and showroom environments.

Care Homes

Support vulnerable residents, staff training, evacuation planning and safe day-to-day care environments.

Distribution & Logistics

Assess warehouses, depots, loading areas, storage risks and operational fire safety arrangements.

Education

Fire risk assessment support for schools, nurseries, colleges, universities and multi-building sites.

Facilities Management

Practical support for facilities teams managing fire safety across complex buildings and sites.

Healthcare

Help protect patients, staff and visitors in clinical, care and healthcare environments.

HMOs/Landlords

Fire safety support for HMOs, shared houses and rented homes. Coordinate assessments, alarms, fire doors, maintenance and remedial work.

Hospitality

Review fire safety risks across guest areas, kitchens, staff spaces and high-occupancy premises.

Hotels

Review guest rooms, escape routes, kitchens, communal areas and staff procedures.

Housing Associations

Help manage fire safety responsibilities across residential buildings, communal areas and tenant spaces.

Lettings Agencies

Support landlords and property managers with rental properties, HMOs and managed blocks.

Places Of Worship

Support safe, accessible spaces for worship, community use, events and shared facilities.

Property Management

Support fire safety compliance across managed buildings, communal areas and multi-property portfolios.

Public Sector

Practical fire risk assessment support for public buildings, community facilities and local authority premises.

Residential/Domestic

Practical fire safety support for homeowners and residents, including smoke detection, fire alarms, electrical checks and fire doors.

Retail

Help protect customers, staff, stock and trading areas with clear fire safety recommendations.

Visitor Attractions

Assess public-facing environments, visitor routes, staff areas, cafés, exhibitions and event spaces.

Do not see your sector?

We protect businesses across every industry – from corner shops to hospitals.

FAQs

Emergency Lighting FAQs

Straightforward answers to common questions about emergency lighting installation, monthly checks, annual testing and maintenance.

Do you provide emergency lighting certificates?

We provide appropriate documentation for the inspection, testing, commissioning or servicing completed. Any defects and recommended remedial work are recorded clearly so the responsible person can plan the next steps.

How long does an annual emergency lighting test take?

The system is tested for its full rated duration, which is commonly up to three hours. The exact duration depends on the system and premises, and the test should be planned for a suitable time because batteries need time to recharge afterwards.

How often should emergency lighting be tested?

A short functional test is normally carried out every month to confirm that each emergency lamp operates. A full-duration test and professional inspection should be completed annually, with the results and any remedial action recorded.

Is emergency lighting a legal requirement?

The Fire Safety Order requires adequate emergency lighting where emergency routes and exits need artificial illumination. What is suitable for a particular building should be established through its fire risk assessment and relevant design guidance.

What happens if an emergency light fails its test?

The defect should be recorded and addressed promptly. Depending on the cause, remedial work may involve replacing a lamp, battery, control gear, sign or complete luminaire, repairing the supply or installing additional equipment.

What is emergency lighting?

Emergency lighting uses an independent power source to provide illumination when the normal lighting supply fails. Emergency escape lighting helps people move safely, identify escape routes and exits, and locate important fire safety equipment.

What is maintained emergency lighting?

A maintained emergency luminaire is illuminated during normal operation and remains illuminated from its emergency supply if the normal supply fails. A non-maintained luminaire normally operates only when the normal lighting supply fails.

Check your area

Do We Provide Emergency Lighting In Your Area?

Enter your UK postcode to check local availability for this service. We also support larger organisations with multiple locations across the UK, so contact us about wider requirements.