Accredited Commercial Emergency Lighting Services
Emergency Lighting Installation & Testing for Businesses in the South East.
Ensure compliance and safety for your business.
Why Emergency Lighting Matters
Protects You From: Panic during power cuts | Legal non-compliance | Insurance issues | Unsafe evacuations
When the power cuts out, people don’t calmly Google "emergency exit". They panic. That’s why emergency lighting is a legal requirement in commercial buildings. It helps your staff and customers evacuate safely, even in total darkness, smoke, or chaos.
Emergency lighting systems kick in automatically during a power failure, illuminating escape routes, stairwells, and high-risk areas. But it’s not enough to just install it and forget it — regular emergency lighting tests and maintenance are essential to ensure your system works when it’s needed most.
At GMSE Fire & Security, we help businesses across the South East stay safe, compliant, and ready for anything. Whether you're looking to install emergency lighting or need help with ongoing testing and servicing, we’ve got you covered.
“BS 5266-1 requires emergency lighting in all non-domestic buildings.”
Our Services
Whether you’re installing a new emergency lighting system or maintaining an existing one, GMSE Fire & Security offers expert solutions tailored to your building, your budget, and your compliance requirements. Our fully qualified engineers deliver every service with precision, professionalism, and minimal disruption to your day-to-day operations.
Emergency Lighting Installation
Design and fitting of emergency lighting systems in accordance with BS 5266-1. Ideal for new builds, refurbishments, or safety upgrades.
Routine Testing & Inspection
We carry out both monthly function tests and full annual discharge tests, providing detailed documentation to keep you audit-ready.
Emergency Lighting Maintenance
Preventive servicing, battery replacements, and full system checks to keep your lighting reliable when you need it most.
Compliance Support & Certification
You’ll receive clear, professional records after every test or service visit — perfect for fire risk assessments, insurance, or HSE checks.
We can also help with:
✅Maintained and non-maintained lighting systems
✅LED and bulkhead emergency lighting fittings
✅Out-of-hours servicing
Who We Work With
Offices & Co-working Spaces
•
Retail Stores & Shopping Centres
•
Warehouses & Industrial Units
•
Hospitality Venues
•
Schools, Nurseries & Colleges
•
Property Managers & Landlords
•
Offices & Co-working Spaces • Retail Stores & Shopping Centres • Warehouses & Industrial Units • Hospitality Venues • Schools, Nurseries & Colleges • Property Managers & Landlords •
Emergency Lighting FAQs
-
Emergency lighting is a backup lighting system that automatically activates when mains power fails. It's designed to illuminate escape routes, exits, and high-risk areas during an emergency — helping people leave the building safely.
-
UK regulations require monthly function tests and a full annual test of your emergency lighting system. GMSE offers scheduled testing services to help your business stay compliant with British Standards (BS 5266-1).
-
Only qualified professionals should install emergency lighting. GMSE’s engineers are fully certified and experienced in fitting emergency lighting systems across all types of commercial buildings.
-
The key standard is BS 5266-1, which outlines the design, installation, and testing requirements for emergency lighting in non-domestic premises.
-
Common types include:
Maintained lighting (always on)
Non-maintained lighting (only comes on when power fails)
Combined units with standard and emergency functions
We’ll recommend the right type for your premises.
-
If you operate a commercial or non-domestic premises in the UK, you likely do. Emergency lighting is a legal requirement under UK fire safety regulations.
-
Monthly tests check that the lights switch on when power is cut. Annual tests involve a full discharge (usually 3 hours) to ensure battery duration meets legal standards. We handle both and provide the paperwork.
-
We’ll identify the fault, provide a clear quote for repairs, and get everything back in working order quickly — minimising disruption and ensuring compliance.
Still have questions?
Contact us here
Why Choose GMSE?
Choosing GMSE means choosing peace of mind. We're not just fire and security experts — we're specialists in emergency lighting systems that meet the highest safety and compliance standards.
✅ BS 5266-1 Compliant: All systems installed and tested to meet UK emergency lighting standards
✅ Certified Engineers: Fully qualified, SSAIB-accredited professionals with years of hands-on experience
✅ Zero Disruption: Testing and maintenance scheduled around your working hours
✅ Clear Reports & Paperwork: You’ll always have what you need for audits, insurers, and safety inspections
✅ Friendly, Local, Reliable: Based in the South East and trusted by businesses across the region
✅ Proactive Reminders: We’ll let you know when your next test is due — no chasing needed
Ready to Get Started?
Let’s make sure your emergency lighting is safe, compliant, and ready when it matters most.
Whether you’re looking for a new installation, scheduled testing, or advice on meeting legal requirements, we’re here to help.
Book your free, no-obligation site visit today — and let’s take the first step toward keeping your building protected.