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Reviewed 25.10.2026England focus

Jasmine Gokmen
In forceFire & Building Safety

BS 5266-1: Emergency lighting

Escape routes, duration and testing

Code of practice for emergency lighting in premises, covering escape routes, illuminance, duration and testing.

Also known as: BS5266-1, BS 5266-1, emergency lighting, escape lighting

Jurisdiction
UK
Document type
Technical standard
Edition
Current edition
Source updated
Not stated by publisher
Applies from
—
Topic
Fire & Building Safety

Key requirements

  • Covers escape lighting and standby lighting.
  • Sets illuminance and uniformity expectations for escape routes.
  • Includes duration, testing and maintenance requirements.
  • Should be informed by a fire risk assessment.
  • Coordinates with the fire detection and alarm strategy.

Performance at a glance

Focus
Escape + standby lighting
Scope
Premises in the UK

Applies to

Premises in the UK with emergency lighting.

Official source

BSI Knowledge — BS 5266-1

Open official source

Related records

BS 9999 · Fire safety in the design, management and use of buildingsBS 5839-1 · Fire detection and fire alarm systemsPart B · Fire safety

Reviewed 25 October 2026. This summary is an editorial reference, not legal advice. Check the current official text and confirm the approach with building control before relying on it. Browse all 35 records.