Which of the following describes the primary function of emergency lighting?

The primary function of emergency lighting is to guide occupants to exits during a power failure. In emergency situations, especially during evacuations, visibility can be drastically reduced due to power outages or other hazards. Emergency lighting systems are designed to activate automatically in these circumstances, ensuring that pathways and exits remain illuminated. This facilitates safe and efficient evacuation, helping occupants navigate safely to exits and minimizing panic and confusion.

Other options focus on aspects that do not align with the fundamental role of emergency lighting. Decorative illumination and aesthetic lighting serve to enhance the visual appeal of a space but do not play a role in safety during emergencies. Additionally, limiting the function of emergency lighting to regular building hours undermines its essential purpose; emergency lighting must be reliable and available at all times regardless of whether the building is actively in use.