—Checks and maintenance
Checking emergency lighting
Emergency lights only matter in an emergency. Routine checks make sure they work when that moment comes.
Emergency lighting switches on when normal lighting fails, lighting exit routes and signs so people can leave safely. Fittings contain batteries that age, particularly in warm ceilings, and lamps or LEDs that can fail without anyone noticing because the light is normally off.
Maintenance guides describe the checks that find problems while they are still small.
Routine checks usually include brief function tests, where the normal supply is interrupted to see that every emergency fitting lights, and less frequent longer tests to confirm batteries last as required. Results are recorded, and failed fittings or batteries are replaced. The building or authority requirements that apply to the premises set the detail.
01In short
The points that matter most
Off until needed
Failures go unnoticed without testing.
Batteries age
Heat shortens battery life.
Record every test
Records show the system is maintained.
02Detail
What is checked
Function tests
Each fitting lights when its normal supply is interrupted.
Duration tests
Batteries hold the light for the required period.
Exit signs
Legible, lit and pointing the right way.
Records
Dates, results and repairs logged.
03Checklist
Facility manager checks
Indicator lights
Many fittings show a charging indicator; note any that are out.
Blocked signs
Signs hidden by partitions or stock.
Test schedule
Plan tests outside busy hours.
04Questions
Questions people ask
- How often should emergency lighting be tested?
- At the intervals set by the requirements that apply to the premises; a maintenance plan records them.
- Why do batteries fail early?
- Heat in ceiling voids and long periods without testing shorten their life.
- Does a fit-out affect emergency lighting?
- Yes. New partitions can block signs or change routes, so the layout is reviewed.
- Can tests disturb staff?
- Brief tests are quick; longer tests are scheduled out of hours.
05Related
Related guides
- Electrical checks for a holiday homeA check that catches the same trouble earlier.
- Communal lighting in compounds and buildingsA check that catches the same trouble earlier.
- Repairing or replacing a distribution boardA related choice for the same kind of work.
- When a socket stops workingAnother thing people notice, with a related check.
This guide sits under maintenance. All topics are on the guides page.
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Emergency lighting due for testing?
Tell us the premises and the number of fittings. We will plan testing and keep records.