The above standard was published on 31 May 2016 and supersedes BS 5266-1:2011 which is now withdrawn. BS 5266-1:2016 is a full revision of the previous standard and gives recommendations and guidance on factors that need to be taken into account in the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of emergency lighting systems, in order to provide the lighting performance needed for safety of people in the building in the event of failure of the supply to the normal lighting. The 2016 version of the Code of Practice includes the following amendments: • Extension of its scope to encompass “Emergency Safety Lighting” and “Standby Lighting”, alongside “Emergency Escape lighting” requirements on which it had always previously focused, reflecting the practice of allowing people to stay in premises in case of power supply failures rather than evacuating them unnecessarily. This will now encompass the design of systems where a ‘stay put’ policy is in place, in the event of a mains supply failure. • Additional risk assessment guidance • References to updated National and International standards including product standards • Additional guidance on High Risk Task lighting • Adding guidance on the installation process, testing and commissioning • Additional guidance on preventive and corrective maintenance requirements • Amendments to existing model certification All emergency lighting systems that fall within the scope of the revised standard must now be designed, installed, commissioned and maintained to comply with the recommendations of BS 5266-1:2016. During your next scheduled audit our auditors will be looking for evidence that you have taken into account the recommendations of the revised standard and, where necessary, you have amended your supporting management system, processes and documentation in order to effect transition to BS 5266-1:2016. Hard copies of the new BS may be purchased from NSI or BSI. You can gain access to the new BS via the on-line subscription to Standards on the NSI website, which is renewable annually. Whilst the on-line subscription does provide a low cost access to standards there are restrictions including one that prohibits printing. For further information on obtaining Standards please visit our website at www.nsi.org.uk or telephone NSI on 01628 637512.