Code of Practice for the Emergency Lighting (Published Date 30th October 2025)
 
BS 5266-1:2025 is the latest edition of the UK’s code of practice for the emergency lighting of premises. It Replaces BS 5266-1:2016
 
It sets out recommendations and guidance on the design, installation, and wiring of emergency lighting systems to ensure safety in the event of a failure of the normal lighting supply.
The standard’s central aim is to promote a consistent approach to emergency lighting so that people can safely exit or remain in a building during emergencies, while also supporting the use of essential safety equipment.
 
 
The most notable update in BS 5266-1:2025 is its expanded scope. In addition to emergency escape lighting, the traditional focus of previous editions, the new version now explicitly addresses local area lighting and standby lighting.
Emergency escape lighting continues to cover the illumination needed to guide people to a safe exit during an emergency.
Local area lighting provides illumination to specific points or tasks, ensuring people can safely complete vital activities in the event of power failure.
Standby lighting is designed to allow normal activities to continue when the main power supply is lost.
This broader view acknowledges the realities of modern building use. In many facilities, evacuation is not the only scenario to consider; sometimes, protecting occupants who remain in place or enabling continuity of essential operations is just as critical.
 
The 2025 revision also aligns BS 5266-1 with changes in EN 1838 and EN 50172, the European standards that define lighting requirements. This alignment strengthens the UK’s consistency with international best practice while ensuring that local application remains clear and practical.
Finally, the new edition places stronger emphasis on uniformity of application. The recommendations have been drawn up to encourage a consistent level of safety, regardless of building type, while still acknowledging differences in risk profile.
 
 
BS 5266-1:2025 is the latest edition of the UK’s code of practice for the emergency lighting of premises.
First developed decades ago, the standard has long provided guidance to ensure that systems meet the performance requirements necessary for safety. The 2025 revision reflects both changes in European standards and the practical experiences of professionals who design, install, and operate emergency lighting systems.
The document is more than a set of technical instructions. It is a framework for best practice. It aims to promote a consistent approach across different categories of premises while accommodating variations in hazard levels and the familiarity of occupants with their environment.
By following its recommendations, building owners, contractors, and regulators can achieve a higher degree of uniformity, reducing confusion and risk.
 
Hard copy is printed on demand with a 3-5 day delivery. Supplied loose-leaf with four holes punched