Emergency lighting is a crucial life-safety system – one that often goes unnoticed until it’s needed most. The release of BS 5266-1:2025, the updated British Standard for the emergency lighting of premises, marks a major step forward in how these systems are designed, installed, and maintained across the built environment.
At its core, the standard exists to protect people. When normal lighting fails, emergency lighting ensures occupants can see clearly, move safely, and either evacuate or remain in place depending on the situation and building protocols. The 2025 revision provides updated guidance that reflects today’s technology, building design, and safety expectations – ensuring systems are both compliant and future-ready.
Unlike its 2016 version, BS 5266-1:2025 expands its scope to include local area lighting and standby lighting, in addition to traditional emergency escape lighting. This change acknowledges how modern buildings operate, where lighting is not only needed to guide evacuation but also to maintain safe conditions for those who remain inside or to allow essential operations to continue. It also brings the standard in line with the latest European updates, ensuring consistency with EN 1838 and EN 50172.
The standard provides a clear framework for designing, installing, and maintaining emergency lighting systems that protect occupants and support compliance with UK fire safety legislation. It applies to almost every type of premises with public or communal access – from hospitals and hotels to schools, workplaces, and residential developments with shared spaces. It also places renewed emphasis on documentation, testing, and maintenance, recognising that emergency lighting is not a one-time installation but an ongoing commitment to safety and reliability.
BS 5266-1:2025 reinforces three key objectives for emergency lighting. The first is to assist safe evacuation by illuminating escape routes and exits during an emergency. The second is to protect those who remain in the building, particularly where a stay-put policy or continued operation is necessary. The third is to support ongoing activity through standby lighting, ensuring critical functions can continue safely in the event of power failure.
These principles underpin a risk-based approach to design – one that takes into account the purpose of the building, the familiarity of occupants with their surroundings, and the types of activities taking place. From open-plan offices and healthcare facilities to theatres and transport hubs, the standard encourages tailored lighting solutions that minimise panic, enhance visibility, and support effective emergency response.
For designers, engineers, facilities managers, and beyond, aligning with BS 5266-1:2025 isn’t just about meeting legal obligations. It’s about ensuring systems perform when they’re needed most. The updated guidance strengthens the connection between good design, robust testing, and proactive maintenance – key principles that help prevent failure, reduce risk, and ultimately save lives.
At Ventilux, we see this new standard as an opportunity for the industry to raise expectations. Our expertise in emergency lighting design, testing, and compliance enables clients to meet the evolving demands of standards like BS 5266-1:2025 with confidence. Whether it’s implementing automated test systems, integrating DALI technology, or delivering comprehensive maintenance strategies, we help ensure that every emergency lighting system is efficient, compliant, and reliable.
The introduction of BS 5266-1:2025 reflects a broader shift in how the industry views safety – moving from reactive compliance to proactive preparations. By embracing this standard, building owners and professionals are not only meeting regulations but demonstrating a clear commitment to resilience and occupant protection.
As emergency lighting continues to evolve, so too does our responsibility to ensure it performs flawlessly in the moments that matter most. BS 5266-1:2025 sets the new benchmark. At Ventilux, we’re here to help you meet it.
Contact the team for more information > Ireland sales@ventilux.ie / UK sales@ventilux.co.uk