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Battery Backup Emergency Lights

Battery Backup Emergency Lighting

Battery backup emergency lights are a critical component of any life safety system, providing uninterrupted illumination when utility power is lost. These fixtures are required in virtually all commercial, industrial, and public buildings to ensure safe egress and compliance with NFPA 101, OSHA, and building code standards. At EmergencyLights.net, we offer a wide selection of options tailored for various applications—including wet-location rated fixtures, recessed emergency lights, and architectural-grade die-cast aluminum units for visually sensitive interiors.

All models feature internal battery systems—most commonly Ni-Cd, NiMH, or lithium-ion—that activate automatically during a power failure. Each unit is designed to deliver a minimum of 90 minutes of emergency lighting, ensuring that hallways, stairwells, exits, and common areas remain illuminated during evacuation or downtime. LED-based designs offer bright, energy-efficient output while reducing maintenance and long-term operating costs.

Installation is straightforward, with universal mounting plates and dual-voltage input (120/277 VAC) supported across most models. Adjustable lamp heads allow you to direct light where it’s needed most, whether in a warehouse aisle, corridor, or open floor plan. Some designs also include self-testing diagnostics to automate inspection routines and alert facility managers of any performance issues.

If you're working in a larger space or want to expand coverage without installing multiple fixtures, remote-capable emergency lights with battery backup allow you to connect additional lamp heads to a single power source—streamlining your layout and simplifying maintenance.

💡What is battery backup emergency lighting? It’s a lighting system that switches seamlessly from AC power to internal battery power during an outage, providing regulated illumination for at least 90 minutes as required by national life safety codes.

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Battery Backup Emergency Lights: Practical FAQs for Code Compliance

Battery backup emergency lighting plays a critical role in building safety, ensuring uninterrupted egress illumination during unexpected power loss. Below are the most common questions we receive from facilities managers, contractors, and code inspectors.

❓ How long do battery backup emergency lights stay on?

All compliant units must operate for at least 90 minutes during a power outage, as specified by NFPA 101 and UL 924 standards.

❓ What kind of battery do these lights use?

Most use NiCad, NiMH, or Lithium-ion batteries. Lithium options offer longer life, faster recharge, and better performance in temperature-sensitive environments.

❓ Do I need to test battery backup emergency lights?

Yes. NFPA requires monthly 30-second functional tests and annual 90-minute full-discharge tests. Self-testing models automate this process.

❓ Where should battery backup lights be installed?

Place them along exit routes, stairwells, corridors, and at exit doors—anywhere occupants must safely pass during an emergency.

❓ How do I know if a unit is compliant?

Look for listings from UL 924 and confirm runtime, battery type, and testing requirements meet NFPA 101 and OSHA standards.

❓ Can I retrofit my existing lighting with a battery backup?

In many cases, yes. Some LED fixtures support plug-in battery backup kits or remote heads. Check product specs or consult our team for compatibility.