External light

[Guest karen]

Hello, we have been asked to replace some existing external lighting to a Scout hut. One external light is above a fire exit but is not currently an emergency light, should it be?? Thanks

[Tom Sutton]

Well assuming emergency escape lighting is required, does the existing EEL illuminated the exit sign, sufficiently in accordance with the British Standard, if it does an addition EL would not be required, if not then fix an addition EL.

Edited October 21, 2015 by Tom Sutton

[AnthonyB]

The exterior of final exits should have an emergency light. For existing buildings without this provision the fire risk assessment (which is even required for Scout Huts!) would determine the urgency of upgrading, however if you are already carrying out a refurbishment project to your external lighting it would generally be expected to apply current standards and install EL as part of it.

[Tom Sutton]

I stand correct I was thinking of final exit not external areas in the immediate vicinity of exits but I stand by if needed, you are not going prescriptive on me are you AB.

[AnthonyB]

Not at all - hence why only fit on refurb/building work unless the risk warrants it.

Borrowed light off other circuits (such as street lights) can be used in mitigation at present as long as the borrowed light is in operation at material times (important where councils cut back on lighting hours) but the rumour is the next revision of BS5266 will remove the ability to do this.