BS EN 1838:2013

What is BS EN 1838 - Emergency lighting applications about?

BS EN 1838 specifies the guidelines for emergency escape lighting and standby lighting systems installed in premises or locations where such systems are required. These locations are principally where the public or workers have access.

Who is BS EN 1838 - Emergency lighting applications for?

BS EN 1838 on emergency lighting can be adopted by:

• Lighting engineers
• Electrical contractors
• Landlords, employers, and any individual with responsibility for premises such as hospitals, care homes, hotels, schools, laboratories, theatres, cinemas, concert halls, sports halls, libraries, shops, museums, and sports stadia

Why should you use BS EN 1838 - Emergency lighting applications?

The overall objective of emergency escape lighting is to enable a safe exit from a location in the event of failure of the normal supply. The standard outlines recommendations for appropriate visual conditions and direction-finding on all escape routes with a view to reducing panic and to enable safe movement from the building plus assistance with proper shutdown procedures.

The use of BS EN 1838 can help save life and unnecessary anxiety and confusion can be alleviated by strategically placed visible signs indicating the way out of a location.

What’s changed since the last update?

BS EN 1838 has been fully revised by experts to bring it up to date with technological developments and industry best practices. Changes include:

• Illumination of the points of emphasis has been clarified and improved and external illuminations have been clarified as needing to extend to a place of safety
• Illumination of fire alarm call points and first aid posts are now consistent, regardless of location
• The colour and style of safety signs is amended to the revised ISO format
• A deviation of some countries has been amended