LIA | Emergency Lighting | Education | Events | Sep 10, 2024

Promoting Competency in Emergency Lighting: A Critical Step for Safety and Industry Advancement

The Industry Committee for Emergency Lighting (ICEL), a part of The Lighting Industry Association (The LIA), enters a new phase in their mission to enhance competency and safety standards in the sector.

Emergency lighting is a cornerstone of public safety. It provides crucial illumination during power outages, enabling safe evacuation and preventing panic in emergency situations. However, the effectiveness of these systems relies heavily on the expertise of those who design, install, and maintain them.

For consumers and end-users, knowing that the professionals responsible for their emergency lighting systems are certified competent offers invaluable peace of mind. Whether in a commercial building, a public space, or a residential area, the assurance that emergency lighting systems will function correctly in a crisis is a matter of life and death.

For professionals, the ICEL Competency Recognition Scheme represents more than just a certification. It is a mark of excellence, validation of expertise, and a testament to their commitment to safety and quality.

“As we move into Phase 2, we are expanding the scheme’s reach, offering even more professionals the opportunity to have their skills validated and recognised. This not only enhances individual careers but also increases the overall standards within the industry.” Teresa Beazley, Commercial & Training Manager, The LIA, commented, “Backed by a framework that spans six critical domains—Testing & Maintenance, Product Design Management, Specification, Installation, Sales & Distribution, and Scheme Design—the ICEL Competency Scheme is designed to recognise the professional skills, knowledge, experience, and behaviours that are needed to succeed.”

The competency framework’s six domains have been carefully developed to cover the full spectrum of emergency lighting work. Whether individuals are involved in the intricate process of product design, the precision required in testing and maintenance, or various aspects of installation and scheme design, there is a pathway for them within this scheme.

The Built Environment is undergoing significant transformation, with increasing emphasis on regulatory compliance, safety, and sustainability. Emergency lighting plays a significant role in this context, ensuring that all buildings, whether new or existing, are equipped to protect occupants in the event of an emergency.

ICEL’s commitment is to promote a culture of excellence within the emergency lighting industry, and by participating in the scheme, people are not only contributing to their personal and professional growth but also playing a vital role in advancing the industry as a whole.

Teresa also commented, “We encourage all professionals within the emergency lighting sector—whether you are new to the field or have years of experience—to take part in this initiative. Gaining recognition for your expertise is a powerful tool that can open doors to new opportunities and career advancement. Moreover, it demonstrates to clients, employers, and peers that you are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of safety and performance. Together, we can ensure that every system, in every building, is designed, installed, and maintained by professionals who are truly fit for the task.”

For more information on how to get involved, or to learn more about the specific domains covered by the ICEL Competency Framework and Scheme, please visit our website or contact teresab@thelia.org.uk.