Emergency Lighting in Low Rise Communal Areas?

[Kevin Shields]

Is it compulsory to have Emergency Lighting in Low Rise Communal Areas?

We have Emergency Lighting in all our High Rise Multi Storey Blocks however the guidance we have on Low Rise doesn’t state if we need it more that it’s desirable.

[Tom Sutton]

It all depends on the risk assessment some buildings may require emergency lighting others not. When a fire risk assessment is conducted in the common areas of blocks of flats the need for emergency lighting will be identified in the documentation, assuming you are not conducting the FRA yourself. Check out the DCLG Sleeping Accommodation guide, Section 5 for more information. A link to the guide can be found in http://www.firesafe.org.uk/regulatory-reform-fire-safety-order-2005/ plus other relevant information.

[Kevin Shields]

Thanks Tom. Our risk assesment recomends them but doesnt stipulate if they are legally required.

Thanks again

Kevin

[Tom Sutton]

Certainly a legal requirement check out article 14 (h) of The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005