The manufacturer has linked the release of its updated Firefly unit to new enforcement figures issued by UK fire authorities, highlighting broader issues around regulatory awareness and safety responsibilities
Thorlux Lighting has unveiled a new version of its Firefly emergency lighting system, citing recent figures from the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) that indicate more than 2,000 premises received fire safety enforcement notices in the past year.
According to Thorlux, data from the NFCC shows that between June 2024 and the end of May 2025, UK fire authorities issued 2,066 enforcement and prohibition notices. This included 10 notices issued to hospitals, six to schools and 140 to care homes.
While the NFCC data does not specify the nature of the breaches, Thorlux suggests it reflects ongoing challenges around compliance with fire safety regulations, including those related to emergency lighting. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, emergency lighting is a legal requirement in most non-domestic premises.
Thorlux’s updated Firefly system is designed to help meet compliance requirements. According to the manufacturer, the product includes self-testing capabilities and integration with its SmartScan lighting control system. This allows for remote monitoring and automated testing, with results logged to support regulatory record-keeping.
The company claims the new units require fewer fittings to achieve compliance and offer extended battery life, which it says can reduce the overall number of units required by up to 50% in some cases. Thorlux also states that the product’s ten-year warranty and reduced maintenance needs could lower long-term operational costs.
Liam Greene, product manager for emergency lighting at Thorlux Lighting, said a lack of clarity around legal responsibility continues to present risks to building occupants and owners. “Despite the critical importance of compliance, many designers, occupiers, or property owners remain unaware of their responsibilities or the fact that they may already be non-compliant,” Greene said. “Breaches of these regulations can result in significant consequences, including personal liability, site closures and restricted access.”
The Firefly system is positioned by Thorlux as a response to these challenges, aiming to simplify the process of maintaining emergency lighting compliance.
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