ESP explains how an end‑to‑end fire system support sets contractors – and wholesalers – up for success.

For electrical contractors navigating the increasingly complex world of fire safety compliance, having a manufacturer that offers more than just products can make all the difference. Equally important is having a wholesaler who can connect them to the right technical support from the outset. ESP has long recognised this need, and over recent years it has built a comprehensive support framework that wholesalers can confidently offer to their customers – guiding contractors from the earliest design discussions right through to final commissioning and certification.

What sets ESP apart is not simply the breadth of its offer, but the way its services integrate into a smooth, contractor‑friendly workflow that wholesalers can rely on to enhance their own customer service. The company’s Fire System Design Service and Fire Commissioning Service have become established pillars of support for installers across the UK – and together, they form a complete package that helps contractors deliver compliant, reliable systems with confidence.

Design support  

ESP’s design service has become a go‑to resource for contractors of all sizes, from local electricians to national contracting firms – often accessed via their preferred electrical wholesaler. By directing customers to ESP’s design team, wholesalers can provide added value at the earliest stage of a project. The service provides expert guidance in selecting the right products and creating a scheme that meets both the project’s objectives and all relevant regulations.

The process begins with an initial discussion to understand the site, the risks, and the client’s requirements. From there, ESP’s design team gathers measurements, drawings and specifications. For larger or more complex projects, a site visit ensures every detail is captured accurately.

With this information in hand, ESP produces a full design proposal, complete with system drawings, device schedules and a quotation. Crucially, the process is collaborative: contractors and the ESP design team work closely together to refine the scheme until it meets every requirement.

The service also extends beyond fire detection. ESP’s design team supports CCTV, Emergency Lighting, Access Control and Disabled Refuge systems – giving wholesalers a single point of contact for multiple safety disciplines. Enquiries are welcomed from both contractors and wholesalers, with a dedicated channel available at design@espuk.com.

Commissioning  

Once installation is complete, ESP’s Fire Commissioning Service provides the final layer of assurance. Delivered by qualified commissioning engineers located throughout the UK, the service ensures that every ESP fire system is tested, configured, and certified in line with BS5839‑1.

The commissioning process includes:

• Full verification of installation quality
• Device testing and loop integrity checks
• Panel programming and cause‑and‑effect configuration
• System performance testing
• Certification issued prior to handover

For contractors, this removes uncertainty and reduces liability. For wholesalers, it provides a valuable after‑sales support option that strengthens customer relationships and reinforces trust in the ESP brand. For end users, it provides confidence that their system has been installed and commissioned to the highest standard.

Independent recognition through BAFE accreditation

ESP’s commitment to quality is further reinforced by its BAFE SP203‑1 accreditation for fire system design. This accreditation – awarded only to organisations that meet strict third‑party certification requirements – places ESP on the National BAFE Fire Safety Register.

For contractors, this means the design service they rely on is independently verified as competent, compliant and aligned with all relevant British Standards. For wholesalers, it provides a strong assurance that the support they are recommending is backed by recognised industry credentials – a powerful advantage in a sector where accountability and traceability are increasingly important.

A complete package

With its established design service, nationwide commissioning support, extensive product portfolio – including the latest two‑wire fire systems – and a team of experienced technical specialists, ESP now offers contractors a truly end‑to‑end fire systems solution.

Wholesalers benefit equally, gaining the ability to offer their customers not just products, but a complete support ecosystem that spans design, installation guidance, and commissioning. This strengthens customer loyalty, enhances the wholesaler’s technical credibility and helps ensure projects run smoothly from start to finish.

In a market where compliance, documentation and reliability are under greater scrutiny than ever, ESP’s integrated approach gives contractors – and the wholesalers who support them – exactly what they need: confidence, clarity, and a partner that adds value at every stage of the project.

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A look at the latest display solutions to help increase your in-store purchases.

SHOWCASE FOR SUSTAINABILITY

Launched last year, the comprehensive Espire range of fire and CO alarms from ESP is making a big impact within the fire and security sector.

Suitable for Grade D1, Grade D2 and Grade F1 installations, the range comprises five alarm types – optical smoke alarms, heat alarms, smoke and heat alarms, carbon monoxide (CO) alarms and CO and heat alarms.

To help wholesalers maximise the impact of the Espire range, ESP has produced a new POS display stand, making it easy to showcase and sell the full Espire range and to support contractors in accessing quality and compliant fire and CO alarm products efficiently.

Measuring 112cm high (153cm with header) by 60cm wide and 41cm deep, the compact, eye-catching display stand is designed to maximise product visibility while occupying minimal floor space, enabling wholesalers to highlight the full range of Espire domestic fire and CO alarms in a single, accessible unit. The stand comes with four integral shelves, and each shelf is designed to hold 16 devices. This offers wholesalers the capacity to display a total of 64 products within a space efficient footprint.

Proactive stance

In line with the sustainability targets of its parent company Scolmore Group, ESP has taken a proactive stance on sustainability by integrating, where possible, eco-friendly materials and energy efficient designs across its product line-up. The Espire POS display stand is 100% recyclable and the company has used recyclable packaging material across the entire product range, opting for eco-friendly, brown card packaging that is fully recyclable and 100% biodegradable.

In addition to the new Espire display stand, ESP offers modular POS wall boards to showcase the company’s diverse range of products and finishes. The boards are designed to be versatile and customisable, allowing retailers to effectively display ESP’s products in an organised and visually appealing manner. The modular aspect of these POS boards means that they can be easily configured and adapted to fit various retail spaces and requirements. Wholesalers have the flexibility to choose from a selection of boards tailored to specific brands within ESP’s product portfolio which currently includes Domestic Detection, Smart Security, CCTV, Access Control, EVAC, Fire Protection, Emergency Lighting, Heating Controls and Time Switches.

Marketing support

Details of ESP’s product displays can be found within the marketing hub section of the ESP website, where the full range of marketing support available to wholesalers is covered, including online ordering, product literature, images and videos.

Electrical wholesalers interested in benefitting from ESP’s POS display stands and wall boards can find out more by contacting their local ESP sales representative.

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ESP’s Alarm Finder on the Espire website provides an effective and reliable way for homeowners, landlords and businesses to identify the most appropriate smoke, heat or carbon monoxide alarms for their specific property requirements.

The tool delivers tailored recommendations to support regulatory compliance, enhance safety standards and provide complete peace of mind.

Fire safety is critical in any property, yet many people are unsure which alarms they need. The Espire Alarm Finder simplifies this process. By answering a few guided questions, users receive personalised recommendations along with clear guidance on the ideal placement of alarms, ensuring full compliance and maximum protection.

The tool begins by establishing the property’s location – England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, or Ireland – since standards and regulations vary by region. This ensures that users only see requirements relevant to them.

It then covers key details such as property type and size, risks to be monitored, system grade required, power connection options and additional features such as RF-Link interconnection and a Remote-Control Switch.

Once all questions are completed, users can request tailored documentation and receive customised recommendations for their property.

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Matt Parton, Product Manager with ESP and Sangamo – part of Scolmore Group – looks at how understanding heating controls can help householders and businesses during the continued energy bills crisis.

The latest UK energy price cap rise will see a typical household’s annual bill increase by 2% – an extra £35 – starting in October 2025, following recent announcements by Ofgem. This latest rise has once again put electricity costs under the spotlight, with implications for households, businesses and the wider electrical trade. For contractors, installers and manufacturers, this shift is more than just a headline number – it directly influences demand for energy efficient technologies, smart systems and renewable solutions as customers look for ways to mitigate rising bills.

Understanding heating controls

Heating controls regulate the temperature and operation of heating systems. When used correctly, they ensure that energy is only consumed when needed, avoiding unnecessary heating. Effective heating control can lead to a reduction in energy wastage, which directly translates into cost savings.

Householders are continuing to look at ways to reduce their energy consumption to help combat rising bills. Understanding how their heating system is performing and how they can make small changes to improve its efficiency is one consideration. Research shows that few people really understand their heating controls and many simply just don’t use them. This is where installers, supported by manufacturers and wholesalers, can play a part in advising and educating consumers on the best products for their circumstances and how to use them.

TPI control

Modern controls are designed to allow you to get the best energy efficiency possible from the heating system. Look out for those with TPI (Time Proportional & Integral) control – a feature in room thermostats that ensures the boiler fires for the shortest possible time in order to reach and maintain a room at the comfort level selected and thus optimise heating efficiency.

Tamper protected thermostat

With a tamperproof thermostat the ‘temperature set’ dial is hidden away, and the set temperature can be maintained without interference. This is particularly advantageous for landlords or where the thermostat is installed in public areas. If a thermostat is set unnecessarily high, this will lead to uncomfortable temperatures and higher than necessary bills.

Programmable thermostat

A programmable thermostat gives the user an option to schedule at what time and day a call for heat can be made, thus reducing the possibility of wasting energy when the property is empty. This is advantageous when the occupants are at work and therefore do not have to remember to switch the heating ON/OFF manually. A programmable thermostat ensures that the heating is not activated longer than required.

Sangamo’s three-channel programmable thermostat, with RF and Wi-Fi, provides the means to operate and control separate heating zones within a residential property and in doing so increase efficiency and reduce energy use and utility costs. The kit is suitable for properties with two-zoned heating systems and is designed to help installers comply with the requirements of Part L Building Regulations where two zone heating is stipulated. The kit comprises two RF programmable room thermostats to control heating over two zones and hot water programming, and one receiver complete with three independent channels – two for heating and one for hot water. The system can be programmed and controlled directly or remotely via the ClickSmart+ app.

Immersion heater control

For some systems immersion heaters are used. A metal element heats up a water cylinder and it can take between one to two hours to produce hot water. An immersion heater is manually switched by the user, which means there is the risk that they will not remember to turn it off.   Timer controlled solutions can ensure that the immersion heater is switched off after a set duration. In addition programmable timer controllers can be used to schedule exactly when the immersion heater is switched on, automatically ensuring hot water is available when required.

Smart controls

The evolution of smart technology continues to play a key role in energy efficiency. It provides homeowners with a real opportunity to make conscious decisions about how they heat their homes and what effect this can have on their energy bills. A smart thermostat is something that installers can easily add to their customers’ home heating, allowing householders to control and monitor the room temperature and thermostat activity from anywhere in the world, via an app on a smart phone or tablet.

The Sangamo Wi-Fi controlled thermostat is controlled through the subscription-free ClickSmart+ app from Scolmore. It offers energy efficient programming and with remote access via the app, it allows for constant monitoring and control at your fingertips. Key features of the thermostat that will help with the control of energy usage include the optimal start function and the open window/door detection feature.

Heating strategies

Understanding and effectively using heating controls is a simple yet powerful way to reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. By implementing smart heating strategies and utilising modern controls, individuals and business owners can achieve comfortable indoor environments while contributing to energy conservation efforts. Small adjustments in heating habits can lead to significant long-term savings and a reduced carbon footprint.

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Following the successful launch of its Espire collection of domestic fire and CO alarms earlier this year, ESP has bolstered the Espire accessories range with the addition of a new sounder strobe with clear lens.

This high-visibility warning device features a transparent diffuser and white LED and it will sit alongside the existing red lens option, providing installers with more choice when it comes to providing dependable fire alarm components that are compliant with industry standards.

Designed for reliability and performance, the IP65-rated sounder strobe is powered by a mains supply and offers four selectable tones. Its white LED strobe provides a clear visual alert when a property’s alarm system is activated, with an optional audible sounder for enhanced notification.

Its IP65 ingress protection rating makes it ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications, including industrial, commercial and harsh environmental settings.

The unit is engineered for flexible installation, featuring 2 x 20mm side-entry and 2 x 10mm rear-entry knockouts for easy wiring. With an output of up to 83dB, the sounder strobe delivers both power and adaptability for comprehensive fire safety solutions.

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Matt Parton, Product Development Manager with ESP, provides wholesalers with detailed information on the use of CO detectors and where they may be best utilised in fire alarm systems.

One type of detector used in fire detection and fire alarm systems is the carbon monoxide (CO) detector. As all smoke contains elements of incomplete combustion, carbon monoxide will always be present in a fire. This article considers the use of CO detectors and where they may be best utilised.

Fire detection and fire alarm systems utilise a range of detectors to accommodate a variety of fires. However, it is important that the means of detection is suitable for the nature of the fire and that any detector conforms to the appropriate Standard.

Means of operation

There are multiple ways in which carbon monoxide can be detected. The most common method is for electrodes to be immersed in a chemical solution that senses change in current flow when CO is present in dangerous quantities.

A second method involves metal-oxide semiconductor (MOS) sensors whose resistance changes depending on the quantity of CO within the chamber. With such detection a signal is generated and either a sounder operates or the control and indicating equipment (CIE) is triggered to sound an alarm.

A third method of CO detection uses a biomimetic sensor. The sensor contains a gel which changes colour when it absorbs CO. As the colour changes, so an alarm is triggered.

Permitted use

The commentary detailed in Clause 10.1.4 of BS5839-6 shows that carbon monoxide fire detectors are point-type detectors which respond to the carbon monoxide present during incomplete combustion. Such detectors are not equivalent to smoke detectors in their response to fire.

One caveat to the use of CO detectors within fire detection and fire alarm systems is that those conforming to BS EN50291 should not be used in such systems. CO detectors conforming to BS EN50291 are only to be used for detecting the presence of CO potentially found in gas boilers, fires or solid fuel systems. However, this does not preclude them being interconnected with the fire detection and fire alarm system in a dwelling.

CO detectors conforming to BS EN54-26 are permitted for use in Grade A systems conforming to BS5839-6 and to fire detection and fire alarm systems conforming to BS5839-1.

It is often the case that CO detectors are incorporated within multi-sensor heat detectors conforming to BS ISO 7240-8 or BS EN54-30 or multisensory smoke and heat detectors conforming to BS EN54-31.

The benefits associated with CO detectors are that they react more rapidly to fire than heat detectors and are immune to certain environmental factors which may affect smoke detectors, such as dust, steam and cigarette smoke.

Maintenance is a key factor where CO detectors are used. As the most common types utilise a chemical means of detection, it is important that the sensor or detector is changed every seven years.

Installation of CO detectors

In domestic premises, CO detectors/alarms should not be the sole means of fire detection in Grade D1/D2 fire detection and fire alarm systems. Clause 10.2e) of BS5839-6 recommends that CO detectors, and multisensory detectors containing CO detection, are only used for Grade A systems where an annual maintenance regime exists, or where a fault warning is given to indicate the need to replace the electrochemical cell.

Where CO detectors are used within a circulation space, there should be an equal or higher number of smoke detectors within the circulation space (Clause 10.2f)). Furthermore, CO detectors should not be installed in kitchens.

Clause 21 of BS5839-1 details the types of detectors recognised for use within non-domestic premises. Clause 21.2g) details where CO detectors may be reasonably used:

• Any area in which the use of a heat detector would be acceptable, other than those areas where the principal fire hazard comprises flammable liquid resulting in rapid flaming fire.
• Rooms opening onto escape routes in Category L3 systems.
• All escape routes within Category L3 and L4 systems, provided the CO detectors are used in conjunction with smoke detectors.
• Any other area where the fire hazard exists where test evidence shows that CO detectors offer adequate fire protection.

Selection

Care should be taken in the selection and use of CO detectors when used within fire detection and fire alarm systems. CO detectors may be combined with heat and smoke detection in multisensory devices. However, even in non-domestic premises, their use should be limited to those fires which are not rapidly flaming as they best operate where smouldering fires exist.

Whilst the CO detectors used for sensing carbon monoxide created by open fires, gas boilers and the like may be interconnected with a fire detection and fire alarm system in a dwelling (Grade D1 or D2 system), they are not to be used as a means of fire detection.

Safer homes

Launched earlier this year, the Espire range of fire and CO alarms from ESP is a comprehensive range of high performance fire and CO alarm products that has at its core quality, reliability and innovation. Suitable for Grade D1, Grade D2 and Grade F1 installations, the range comprises five alarm types – optical smoke alarms, heat alarms, smoke and heat alarms, CO alarms and CO and heat alarms.

Espire’s CO alarms are engineered to provide early, reliable warnings. They utilise electrochemical sensors that detect even small increases in carbon monoxide levels and provide a pre-alarm visual alert before the full alarm is triggered. The sensors are tested and certified to BS EN50291-1, ensuring adherence to the highest safety standards. The Espire CO alarms are to be installed in accordance with BS EN50292.

Installers can choose from two power options to suit varying project requirements:

• Powered by mains with a sealed tamper-proof 10-year lithium battery.
• Powered by a sealed tamper-proof 10-year lithium battery.

Each alarm features auto-testing, a 24-hour alarm memory, and RF-link support for system-wide warning capabilities. Whether installed in living areas, bedrooms, or near combustion appliances, Espire CO alarms offer peace of mind with the backing of ESP’s 25+ years of fire and security expertise.

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It’s been a busy few months in the electrical industry, with new appointments and shake-ups across different sectors. Keep up to date with the latest movements here, as we details who has gone where…

Ryan Woods & Nick Howley
UNICRIMP

Unicrimp has welcomed two new members to its sales team. Ryan Woods has been appointed as Area Sales Manager for Northern Ireland, providing a dedicated sales resource to the region which was previously managed alongside Scotland. Ryan joins the company from his previous role with a leading electrical wholesaler, where he held the position of account manager for three years, followed by a period as Renewables Area Sales Manager.

As part of its continued business growth, Unicrimp has created a new sales role in the North to enhance support for local wholesalers. Nick Howley takes on the role of Area Sales Manager for the newly created North East region, bringing a focused effort and increased resources to the area. Nick brings nearly a decade of experience in the electrical industry to his new role. In their new roles, both Ryan and Nick will focus on fostering and strengthening relationships with new and existing Unicrimp wholesalers.

Daniel Thomas
SCOLMORE GROUP

Scolmore Group has announced the appointment of Daniel Thomas as the new Group Specification Manager for Wales. Daniel joins a growing specification team which has responsibility for creating demand for products from the Scolmore Group portfolio across a variety of sectors.

His focus will be on demand creation within the Local Authority and Housing Association sectors across Wales, offering expert education, technical support and specification assistance on a wide range of products and standards.

Mark Flanagan
SCOLMORE GROUP

Scolmore Group has announced the promotion of Mark Flanagan to the position of Technical Director.

With over 20 years’ experience in the manufacturing industry and a strong background in product development and quality control, Mark is well equipped to lead the company’s technical operations and further elevate Scolmore’s commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative products to customers worldwide.

Qualified in electrical/electronic engineering, Mark started his career as an apprentice for a lighting manufacturer, where he would spend a decade working as a technical engineer. He then moved to Scolmore Group, joining the company in 2012 as a Quality Control Engineer.

Darren Baker & Dan Brown
ESP

ESP has welcomed two new members to its sales team as the company seeks to further enhance regional support and customer engagement across the South West, West Midlands and Wales regions.

Darren Baker takes up the position of Area Sales Manager for the Southwest. He joins the ESP team with a wealth of experience in sales across various industries. With a background in fire and security engineering and electrical wholesale, Darren is set to play a pivotal role in expanding the company’s presence in the South West.

Appointed as Area Sales Manager for the West Midlands and South Wales regions is Dan Brown. Dan’s career spans over a decade in sales, with roles that include Internal Sales, External Sales Representative and Branch Manager at an electrical wholesaler, and Internal Sales at an electrical distribution company.

Mitchel Smith
WORLDSKILLS UK

NICEIC Technical Training Developer, Mitchel Smith, has been announced as the new WorldSkills UK Training Manager for Electrical Installation. This role will see Mitchel leading the training and development of competitors in the Electrical Installation category for WorldSkills as the squad prepares to represent the UK on the international stage.

The WorldSkills competition is considered by global experts as the ultimate test of a nation’s ability to meet future skills needs. It is attended by government representatives, educationalists and leading employers from across the globe.

Mitchel Smith brings over 20 years of experience in the electrical industry, with a track record demonstrating both technical integrity and a desire to continually raise the bar. Mitchel also brings a dedication to training, fostering talent and promoting high standards in electrical installation, making him the ideal person to lead the Electrical Installation squad through their training and preparation for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.

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Katie Plumstead, Group Marketing Manager with Scolmore Group, provides an overview of the home automation sector, and outlines details of the smart solution that ESP can offer wholesalers.

The home automation market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for smart homes. Electrical wholesalers are in a prime position to capitalise on this trend by offering a range of smart home products and solutions. By understanding the key technologies, market opportunities, and implementation strategies, wholesalers can stay ahead of the curve and enhance their business prospects.

Understanding home automation

Home automation refers to the use of smart devices and interconnected systems to control various aspects of a home, including lighting, security, heating, cooling and entertainment. These systems are typically controlled through mobile apps, voice commands, or centralised hubs. As technology advances, consumers are increasingly seeking integrated solutions that enhance convenience, energy efficiency, and security. Electricians who are working to satisfy this demand will be looking to their preferred wholesaler and manufacturer to provide guidance on the products and solutions available to help them meet their clients’ requirements.

Key technologies:

1. Smart security systems – cameras, smart locks, doorbell cameras and alarm systems that provide real-time monitoring and control.
2. Smart lighting – includes LED bulbs, dimmers and motion sensors that can be controlled remotely.
3. Thermostats and climate control – smart thermostats allow homeowners to optimise energy use and maintain comfortable temperatures.
4. Smart plugs and switches – enable remote control of electrical appliances and devices.
5. Voice assistants and hubs – devices such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit integrate various smart devices for seamless operation.

The smart security solution

ESP first launched its comprehensive range of Fort smart security products over three years ago and the range continues to be popular both for the installers fitting the products and the wholesalers stocking the range, with its choice of easy-to-install and set-up security solutions. Fort is a complete range of smart security products, which includes intruder alarms, video doorbell, video security light, sensors and a selection of 1080p cameras. They all operate under a single app – the ‘Click Smart+’ app – which is completely subscription-free, with no additional fees incurred. With the operation of the Fort range coming under Click Smart+ app from Scolmore, users have control of a raft of connected home and security products all from one secure, easy to access platform.

Fort offers accessibility and simplicity for both the installer and end user, bringing smart solutions together for a safer and more comfortable home. The range features contemporary styling and has been designed to be simple to install, maintain and use and to provide a hassle-free security solution.

At the heart of the Fort smart security range is the smart intruder alarm, which will support up to 32 RF devices and provide remote monitoring and alert notifications directly to the Click Smart+ APP. The smart alarms are available in handy kit formats or can be purchased as separate devices for a tailor-made system.

The purpose-built smart security kits contain everything needed to kit out a home in one box. A number of different kits are available, with the basic kit containing one each of the following – a smart hub, PIR, door/window contact and remote control. Other kits offer an additional number of PIRs, door/window contacts, remote controls and pet PIRs. Other kits include an additional smart alarm keypad and external solar powered smart siren, or an additional smart alarm keypad, external solar powered smart siren and smart Wi-Fi doorbell. All devices supplied within the kits are pre-registered, to assist with a straightforward install.

The Fort range also includes a smart thermostat and smart sockets to further enhance the offer to stockists and end users.

Maximising opportunities

The range of home automation products and solutions available is extensive and by stocking a wide variety wholesalers can attract a broader range of customers, with electricians and consumers keen to take advantage of this growing sector. By partnering with a reputable manufacturer, wholesalers will have access to high-quality, cutting-edge products, backed up with excellent customer service and access to training to help them understand how the different products operate and integrate. As the demand for smart home technology continues to grow, electrical wholesalers have a significant opportunity to expand their product lines and enhance customer engagement. By investing in the right products, partnerships, and training, wholesalers can position themselves as go-to suppliers for the evolving home automation market.

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Sangamo has announced the launch of its new, high quality motorised zone valves. Designed with both the installer and end-user in mind, these motorised valves offer precise control over the flow of hot water in heating control systems, providing a reliable solution for both residential and commercial applications.

The new motorised zone valves feature a robust brass body and a steel actuator head to ensure longevity and reliable performance, even under challenging conditions. For added convenience, they are equipped with a manual lever that allows quick filling and draining of the system, making servicing straightforward and reducing maintenance demands.

They are also widely compatible with existing zone valve systems, making them an ideal replacement option and come offered in two sizes: 2 Port 22mm and 3 Port 22mm.

The Sangamo range of specialist time switches and heating controls is distributed through Scolmore Group company ESP.

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Matt Parton, Product Development Manager with ESP, provides wholesalers with an overview of emergency lighting, its importance, the different types and the legislation governing this crucial product category.

Emergency lighting is an essential component of any building’s safety system. It plays a crucial role in guiding occupants to safety during power outages, fires, or other emergency situations. Whether in commercial buildings, industrial facilities or residential properties, emergency lighting provides illumination that can prevent panic, reduce accidents and facilitate safe evacuation.

Emergency lighting systems

There are several types of emergency lighting systems designed to suit different building requirements:

• Emergency escape lighting – illuminates exit paths, doorways and staircases during power failures.
• Standby lighting – provides temporary lighting for normal activities to continue during power outages.
• Open area (anti-panic) lighting – reduces panic by ensuring general visibility in large spaces, enabling safe movement towards escape routes.
• High-risk task area lighting – ensures safety in areas with dangerous equipment or processes.

Regulations and requirements

In the UK, emergency lighting is regulated under several key laws and standards to ensure safety in the event of a power failure. The main regulations and standards that apply include:

Regulatory Framework

• The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO)
  • Requires businesses and building owners to conduct fire risk assessments, which include emergency lighting provisions.
  • Ensures emergency lighting provides adequate illumination for safe evacuation.
• The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996
  • Requires emergency exit signs to be illuminated and visible at all times.
• The Building Regulations 2010 (Part B – Fire Safety)
  • Sets out requirements for emergency lighting in new and modified buildings.
  • Ensures routes and exits are sufficiently illuminated in case of failure.

British Standards for emergency lighting

• BS5266-1:2016 – Code of Practice for Emergency Lighting
  • Provides guidance on design, installation, and maintenance.
  • Covers minimum illuminance levels, locations, and durations.
• BS EN1838:2024 – Lighting Applications: Emergency Lighting
  • Specifies the performance requirements for emergency escape lighting and standby lighting.
• BS7671:2018 (IET Wiring Regulations – 18th Edition)
  • Covers electrical installation requirements, including emergency lighting circuits.

Maintenance and testing requirements

• BS5266-8 / BS EN50172:2004
  • Requires routine inspections and testing, including:
    • Monthly test – Functional test to check illumination.
    • Annual full-duration test – Ensuring the lights stay on for the required period (e.g., one or three hours).

Solutions

There is a wide range of emergency lighting products that wholesalers can stock to meet the needs of customers working across different industries and building types. The essential products comprise:

• Bulkheads – versatile, cost effective lights suitable for multiple applications, including exterior use, as most are IP65 rated.
• Downlights – discreet, low-profile fittings that can be recessed into ceilings, ideal for areas where aesthetics are important.
• Exit signs – illuminated signs that combine directional escape signage with LED lighting, designed to operate for at least three hours during power failures.
• Twin spotlights – powerful LED lamps suitable for illuminating large open or high areas such as warehouses, sports stadiums, and industrial units.
• Self-test emergency lights: Programmed to perform automatic checks on batteries and lamps, providing visual indications of any faults.

The future

The future of emergency lighting holds significant advancements and innovations that will enhance safety, efficiency and sustainability. LED technology will continue to drive improvements in energy efficiency. Future emergency lighting solutions will optimise energy consumption without compromising illumination quality, contributing to more sustainable and eco-friendly lighting systems. The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technology will enable real-time monitoring and diagnostics of emergency lighting systems. This will allow alerts to be received about potential issues before they become critical, ensuring that systems are always ready to perform when needed.

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