Emergency lighting in hotels is a necessary legal requirement, as part of the fire safety legislation. These are applicable to all manner of commercial and residential properties, and are designed and planned in such a way that the direction to the emergency exit will be well lit and easy to see, should your building lose power, or face a fire emergency. Emergency lighting can reduce panic, and can also help keep your guests, and your staff, safe. Here at Walker Electrical, we are Preston’s leading commercial, industrial and residential electrical experts. As a result, we have produced this guide to everything you should know about emergency lighting and hotels.
What are the important Legal requirements for emergency lighting and hotels?
Since the introduction of The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order (RRFSO) 2005, it has become the responsibility of the person in control of non-domestic buildings to ensure the safety of everyone inside. This includes employees and guests at hotels. As part of this responsibility, Article 14 (2) (h) of the RRFSO states:
“Emergency routes and exits requiring illumination MUST be provided with emergency lighting of adequate intensity in the case of failure of their normal lighting”.
In 2013, the standards changed to include new guidance, concerning high risk task lighting, swimming pools and open balcony areas. This includes steps to ensure that emergency lighting is easy to see, and takes into account the needs for people with disabilities and visual impairments.
What do you need to do?
All commercial buildings, including hotels and residential properties, are required to undertake regular reviews of their emergency lighting. It should be tested at least once a year, with all the necessary maintenance and servicing work carried out promptly and efficiently. This can ensure the safety of employees and visitors. Mishaps and even minor compliance failures can result in substantial penalties and even prison time.
For professional electrical support from a team you can trust, get in touch with the experts today, here at Walker Electrical.