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    Understanding the Dual-Standard Approach: BS EN 1838:2024 vs BS 5266-1:2016

    UK emergency lighting compliance requires understanding two complementary but distinct standards that work together to ensure building safety. For designers seeking to provide compliant systems, it’s crucial to understand when and how to apply each standard.

    BS EN 1838:2024: The Performance Standard

    Purpose: Specifies the luminous requirements (what lighting levels must be achieved) for emergency escape lighting and standby lighting systems. This is a European performance standard that defines technical lighting targets.[1]

    When to Use: BS EN 1838:2024 is referenced when determining:

    • Required illuminance levels for different areas

    • Measurement procedures and verification of lighting performance

    • Technical specifications for adaptive emergency escape lighting systems (AEELS)[2]

    • Compliance with European harmonised standards

    Key 2024 Updates:

    • Full Width Route Illumination: Escape routes now require illumination across the entire route width, not just the centre line. For routes wider than 2m, exclude 0.5m borders; for routes 2m or narrower, exclude quarter-width borders[3]

    • Enhanced Points of Emphasis: Minimum 5 lux vertical illuminance at fire alarm call points, firefighting equipment, and door controls[4]

    • Adaptive Emergency Escape Lighting Systems (AEELS): New requirements for intelligent systems that can modify escape routes based on real-time conditions[5]

    • Local Area Lighting: Specific provisions for occupants remaining in buildings during power outages[6]

    BS 5266-1:2016: The Code of Practice

    Purpose: Provides comprehensive practical guidance for design, installation, commissioning, testing, and maintenance of emergency lighting systems. This is the UK’s complete application standard.[7]

    When to Use: BS 5266-1:2016 is essential for:

    • System design and layout planning

    • Installation procedures and wiring requirements

    • Commissioning checklists and handover procedures

    • Testing protocols and maintenance schedules

    • Risk assessment guidance

    • Record keeping and documentation

    Scope: Covers the complete project lifecycle from initial consultation through ongoing maintenance, with specific guidance for diverse UK building types.

    Designer's Decision Matrix: When to Apply Each Standard

    Design StageUse BS EN 1838:2024 ForUse BS 5266-1:2016 For
    Performance SpecificationLight levels, illuminance targets, measurement criteriaSystem classification, duration requirements, design procedures
    Layout DesignFull-width route illumination requirements, points of emphasisLuminaire spacing, positioning, coverage areas
    System SelectionAEELS requirements, technical performancePower supply selection, wiring methods, system types
    InstallationMeasurement verification proceduresInstallation methods, cable requirements, commissioning
    Compliance VerificationIlluminance testing and measurementTesting schedules, documentation, certification

    Current Emergency Lighting Minimum Lux Levels (BS 5266-1:2016)

    The lighting requirements now reflect both standards’ latest provisions:

    Escape Routes: Minimum 1 lux across the full width of escape routes (excluding specified border areas), representing a significant change from centre-line-only illumination in previous standards.[8]

    Open Areas (Anti-panic Lighting): Minimum 0.5 lux at floor level for areas greater than 60m², excluding 0.5m perimeter border. Industry guidance indicates future revisions will likely increase this to 1 lux minimum.[9]

    High-Risk Task Areas: Not less than 10% of average normal lighting with minimum 15 lux.[10]

    Points of Emphasis: Minimum 5 lux vertical illuminance at fire alarm call points, firefighting equipment, and safety devices – a key update in BS EN 1838:2024.[11]

    Specific Applications: Treatment rooms require 50 lux, first aid rooms require 15 lux, and reception areas require 15 lux.[12]

    Adaptive Emergency Escape Lighting Systems (AEELS)

    BS EN 1838:2024 introduces mandatory consideration of AEELS for all building types. These intelligent systems can:[13]

    • Automatically modify escape routes based on real-time fire or hazard conditions[14]

    • Enhance signage visibility through dynamic directional indicators[14]

    • Integrate with building management systems for coordinated emergency response[14]

    • Revert to standard EN 1838 operation if system communication fails[14]

    Design Implications: AEELS require additional infrastructure planning, including communication networks between control units and luminaires. Designers must ensure fallback compliance with standard emergency lighting requirements.[14]

    UK Building Regulations Compliance Framework

    Legal Requirements:

    • Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005: Mandates adequate emergency lighting provision[15]

    • Building Regulations Part B: Fire safety requirements for new and existing buildings[16]

    • Health and Safety Regulations: Workplace safety sign and signal requirements[17]

    Standards Hierarchy:

    1. BS EN 1838:2024: Technical performance requirements (European harmonised)

    2. BS 5266-1:2016: UK code of practice and application guidance

    3. BS EN 50172:2024: Testing and maintenance procedures[18]

    4. BS EN 60598-2-22:2022: Luminaire safety and performance standards[18]

    For UK Compliance: Projects must satisfy both the technical performance targets of BS EN 1838:2024 and the practical application requirements of BS 5266-1:2016.

    Luminaire Performance Requirements under BS EN 60598-2-22:2020/2021

    The standard BS EN 60598-2-22 has undergone significant updates, with the latest version being IEC 60598-2-22:2021 (adopted as BS EN 60598-2-22:2022) [19][20][21]. The key performance changes include:

    Updated Requirements [20][21][22]:

    • Rest mode and inhibiting mode requirements have been updated and clarified

    • High temperature operation tests have been clarified with more specific testing procedures

    • New requirements for lithium batteries have been introduced to address modern battery technologies

    • Electric double layer capacitors (EDLCs) now have specific requirements

    • Resistance to heat, fire and tracking requirements have been clarified

    • Test facilities for self-contained luminaires have been clarified

    • Contrast measurements for exit signs test methods have been improved

    The luminaires must comply with these performance standards to ensure reliable operation during emergency conditions[23][24].

    Changes to Emergency Lighting Maintenance and Testing

    Recent updates to maintenance and testing requirements have introduced more stringent procedures:

    BS EN 50172:2024 Updates [25][26][27]:

    • Introduction of bi-annual testing requirements for emergency luminaires and externally illuminated safety signs

    • Enhanced initial verification requirements

    • Improved handover documentation standards

    • Modified maintenance and verification procedures

    • New guidance for system durations and activation times

    • Considerations for emergency lighting during lockdowns or prolonged power disconnections

    Testing Frequencies [28][29][30]:

    • Daily tests: Only required for central battery systems

    • Monthly functional tests: Brief 30-second to 1-minute tests to verify operation [28][29]

    • Annual duration tests: Full 3-hour discharge tests to verify battery capacity [28][29]

    • Bi-annual inspections: New requirement to check for damage, dirt, dust, and material degradation

    Fire-Resisting Cable and Circuit Routing Requirements

    Emergency lighting cables must meet enhanced fire protection requirements [30][31]:

    Cable Performance Standards:

    • Cables should have a minimum 60-minute survival when tested to BS EN 50200:2015 [31]

    • Standard cables (like FP200 Gold) are suitable for most applications including sprinklered buildings [30]

    • Enhanced cables (like FP PLUS) may be necessary for large, complex, un-sprinklered buildings [30]

    Installation Requirements [32] [33]:

    • Fire-resisting supports are required for wiring systems in escape routes under BS 7671 Regulation 521.11.201 [32]

    • Segregation requirements when emergency lighting cables share containment with other services [31]

    • Non-combustible support methods are required – plastic clips, ties, or trunking cannot be the primary means of support [31]

    • Cables must be exclusive to the emergency lighting installation and separate from other circuits [31]

    Circuit Protection [34] [35]:

    • Emergency system wiring must be entirely independent of all other wiring, with limited exceptions [34] [35]

    • Two-hour fire protection is required for specific installations in assembly occupancies or buildings above 23m height [34]

    • Listed fire-rated assemblies or electrical circuit protective systems may be required

    Updates from BSI and Emergency Signage

    BS 9991:2024 Updates [36] [37] [38]:
    The revised BS 9991:2024 (Fire safety in residential buildings) was published on November 27, 2024, introducing:

    • Expanded scope to include residential care homes

    • Enhanced guidelines for evacuation lifts

    • Revised height limits for sprinkler installation and single-stair buildings

    • European classifications for fire doors

    • Smoke control enhancements

    BS EN 1838:2024 Updates [39] [40]:
    The new emergency lighting standard, published December 31, 2024, includes:

    • Revised escape route lighting requirements to cover the entire route width

    • Adaptive Emergency Escape Lighting Systems (AEELS) recommendations for all building types

    • Enhanced specifications for points of emphasis and hazardous areas

    • 5 lux minimum vertically at fire alarm call points and firefighting equipment

    PLS (Photoluminescent Safety) Location Criteria

    Photoluminescent safety systems are governed by the following standards [31] [32] [33]:

    Key Standards:

    • ASTM E2072-10: Standard Specification for Photoluminescent Safety Markings [34]

    • ISO 7010: International standard for safety symbols [32]

    • UL 924: Standard for Emergency Lighting and Power Equipment [35] [33]

    Installation Requirements [32] [33]:

    • Minimum 5 foot-candles of ambient illumination on photoluminescent signs [36]

    • Continuous illumination required while buildings are occupied [33]

      • Charging illumination must be from reliable light sources as determined by authorities [33]

    CIBSE Updates

    The CIBSE LG12 Emergency Lighting (2022) edition [37] [38] provides updated guidance emphasising:

    • Risk assessment-based approaches to emergency lighting design

    • Standardised terminology from BSI definitions

    • Enhanced design management procedures

    • Compliance documentation requirements for safety legislation

    • Updated equipment and system guidance

    This guide reflects the evolution from prescriptive rules to risk-based design approaches, ensuring emergency lighting systems are optimised for specific building circumstances while maintaining full compliance with safety legislation [37] [39].

    Designer's Compliance Checklist

    Pre-Design Phase:
    □ Conduct risk assessment per BS 5266-1:2016 guidance[39]
    □ Determine building classification and occupancy type[40]
    □ Assess requirement for AEELS per BS EN 1838:2024[41]

    Design Phase:
    □ Apply BS EN 1838:2024 illuminance requirements[42]
    □ Follow BS 5266-1:2016 design procedures[43]
    □ Ensure full-width route illumination compliance[44]
    □ Specify points of emphasis lighting (5 lux vertical)[45]

    Installation Phase:
    □ Use BS 5266-1:2016 installation guidance[46]
    □ Implement fire-resistant cabling per requirements[47]
    □ Complete commissioning per BS EN 50172:2024[48]

    Handover Phase:
    □ Verify illuminance levels per BS EN 1838:2024[49]
    □ Complete BS 5266-1:2016 documentation requirements[50]
    □ Establish testing and maintenance schedules

    Two-Hour Fire Protection Requirement

    The requirement for two-hour fire protection in emergency lighting and associated circuits is a key safety measure in high-risk environments. This is primarily applied to:

    • Assembly occupancies (buildings used for gathering people, such as theatres, halls, large restaurants)

    • Buildings above 23 metres (75 ft) in height (about 7–8 storeys and above)

    These settings present unique evacuation challenges due to high occupancy or complex layouts, which can necessitate prolonged evacuation times.

    Why Two-Hour Fire Protection?

    • Purpose: To ensure emergency systems—especially escape lighting, alarms, and evacuation controls—remain operational long enough for safe evacuation, even under severe fire conditions.

    • Evacuation Complexity: High-rise buildings and assembly spaces may require staged or delayed evacuations, necessitating longer circuit integrity.

    • Regulatory Basis: This minimum is reflected in British Standards such as BS 5266-1 (emergency lighting) and referenced in wiring regulations and circuit design practice for life safety systems [51] [52] [53].

    Where Two-Hour Fire-Rated Circuits Are Required

    • Emergency lighting circuits in large assembly spaces and buildings over 23 metres

    • Fire alarm cabling and control circuits for critical fire safety systems

    • Evacuation lift supplies, smoke control, and firefighting equipment circuits in high-rise or assembly buildings

    Fire resistance must be ensured either by:

    • Cables with at least 120 minutes (PH120) fire resistance (tested typically at 830°C, complying with BS EN 50200/BS8434-2 or BS 8519 for control circuits)

    • Or installation within a fire-resisting enclosure, fire-protected shaft, or concrete encasement giving minimum two-hour protection [52] [53] [54] [55]

     

    Methods of Achieving Two-Hour Protection

    Solution TypeExamples & Notes
    Fire-resistant cableEnhanced fire-resistant cables (PH120) such as those complying with BS 7629-1, BS 8491, or BS 8434-2
    Mineral-insulated (MI)MI cables listed as fire-resistive, typically with 2-hour rating
    Protected containmentInstallation in fire-protected shafts, ductwork, or concrete encasement with 2-hour fire rating
    Listed assembliesSpecially tested assemblies or trays with documented 2-hour circuit integrity

    Regulatory Guidance

    • As per BS 5266 and related commentary, the application of two-hour-rated cable or protection is required in:

      • Assembly occupancies where evacuation is complex, phased, or where large numbers delay escape

      • High-rise (typically above 23m/75 ft) buildings, to allow for delayed or progressive evacuation

    • Enhanced fire resistance (two hours) is also recommended where evacuation cannot be immediate or is undertaken in stages [52] [53] [54].

    Summary Table: Circuit Fire Protection for Emergency Systems

    Installation ScenarioMinimum Circuit Fire Rating
    Standard buildings (normal risk)1 hour (PH60) inside escape routes
    Assembly occupancy/high-rise (>23m)2 hours (PH120) throughout circuit
    Unsprinklered, complex evacuation2 hours (PH120), enhanced specification

    Practical Application Examples

    Example 1: Office Building Corridor (3m wide)

    • BS EN 1838:2024: Requires 1 lux across full 2m central band (excluding 0.5m borders)

    • BS 5266-1:2016: Provides luminaire spacing and mounting guidance for achieving this requirement

    Example 2: High-Risk Manufacturing Area

    • BS EN 1838:2024: Specifies minimum illuminance levels for safe shutdown procedures

    • BS 5266-1:2016: Details installation methods for harsh industrial environments

    Example 3: Large Assembly Hall with AEELS

    • BS EN 1838:2024: Defines AEELS performance requirements and fallback provisions

    • BS 5266-1:2016: Provides system design methodology and integration guidance

    Summary for UK Designers

    Key Takeaways:

    1. Both standards are required for UK compliance – they are complementary, not alternatives

    2. BS EN 1838:2024 defines “what” (performance targets) while BS 5266-1:2016 defines “how” (practical implementation)

    3. Full-width route illumination is now mandatory – update existing design practices

    4. AEELS consideration is required for all new projects

    5. Enhanced documentation requirements under updated testing standards

    For Immediate Implementation:

    • Update design templates to reflect full-width illumination requirements

    • Include AEELS assessment in project specifications

    • Ensure measurement verification procedures align with BS EN 1838:2024

    • Maintain BS 5266-1:2016 design and installation practices

    Related Standards:

    • BS 5266-1:2016: Emergency Lighting Code of Practice

    • BS EN 1838:2024: Lighting Applications – Emergency Lighting

    • BS EN 50172:2024: Testing and Maintenance

    • BS 8519: Fire-resistant Cable Systems

    • BS EN 50200, BS 8434-2: Fire Testing of Cables

    • UK Building Regulations, Section B for Fire Safety

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