18 November 2025 - Revised guidance on the design, installation and application of emergency lighting systems has been published by BSI, the UK’s national standards body.
The updated, fully revised standard Emergency lighting – Part 1: Code of practice for the emergency lighting of premises (BS 5266-1:2025) aims to promote wider understanding of the different types of emergency lighting systems that may be used and offer clear guidance on their correct application in different types of buildings. It is intended to support the provision of fire safety across the UK.
The full revision of BS 5266-1, last revised in 2016 , expands the scope to cover local area lighting and standby lighting, in addition to emergency escape lighting, providing a more comprehensive framework for modern building safety needs.
The standard recognizes that, beyond ensuring safe and unobstructed escape routes at all times, emergency lighting serves additional key purposes, including enabling the immediate identification and use of fire alarm call points and firefighting equipment, and reducing the risk of panic in lifts or other enclosed or high-occupancy areas.
Recommendations within the standard encourage a uniform, consistent approach to keeping people safe in the event of interruption to normal lighting, taking into account the hazard level and degree of familiarity with the premises.
Anthony Burd, Director of Built Environment, BSI said “The revised standard on emergency lighting, BS 5266-1:2025, marks a significant advancement in building safety, expanding its guidance to cover emergency escape, local area and standby lighting. This updated, modernized standard should help organizations enhance safety, demonstrate best practice, and ensure consistent protection for people across all types of premises. We are pleased to publish it as part of BSI’s continued commitment to public safety and resilience in the built environment
“By adopting this standard, organizations will have the opportunity to ensure their emergency lighting systems meet the latest best practice guidance, support compliance with safety regulations and reinforce public trust in the safety of the built environment.”
For further information on the standard, visit https://knowledge.bsigroup.com/products/emergency-lighting-emergency-lighting-of-premises-code-of-practice
