How often should emergency lighting be tested?

Posted 2024-05-02 08:25:29

Emergency lighting is a crucial aspect of building safety, providing illumination for occupants to escape safely in emergency situations. But how often should you test your emergency lighting to ensure it functions properly? In this article, we will guide you through the recommended testing frequency and procedures for emergency lighting systems.

Testing Frequency

First and foremost, it is essential that your emergency lighting system is tested by a competent person due to its critical role in ensuring occupant safety during emergencies. The testing frequency may vary depending on the type of system, whether it is maintained or non-maintained. However, as a general guideline, you should aim to test your emergency lighting system on a monthly basis, in addition to an annual "full duration" test as described in the BS 5266-1 standard.

Monthly Tests

The monthly tests, often referred to as "flick tests," involve a short functional test simulating a failure of the mains power supply. This test ensures that the emergency lamps switch on and illuminate correctly. During the test, it is important to ensure that the luminaires are free from damage and clean. To perform the test, use a secure device key, commonly known as a fish key, instead of switching off the mains lighting power, which may pose hazards to other occupants. It is crucial to keep a record of all monthly tests, including any faults, which should be reported to the responsible person for appropriate remedial action.

Annual Test

The annual test involves testing the emergency lighting system for a duration of three hours. For this test, the primary lighting circuit must be switched off, and the emergency lights should remain on for the full three-hour period, as specified in BS 5266-1. Throughout this test, all luminaires should remain lit, and any defects should be reported and resolved promptly. It is recommended to have a competent person carry out these annual emergency lighting tests and address any remedial work that may be required. Technicians can perform these tests during a fire alarm service, allowing them to monitor the lamps while completing the test duration.

How to Test Your Emergency Lighting

When testing emergency lighting, it is essential to treat it like any other emergency equipment that requires maintenance and regular testing. Each light should be identified and assigned a location identity for recordkeeping purposes. A log should be maintained to record the system test, any defects, damage, and the remedial action taken for each light.

During the test, you need to simulate a mains power failure or power cut on the normal lighting circuit or individual luminaires. If your building or circuit has a single switch, it is crucial to walk the entire building or circuit to ensure that all lights are functioning correctly and that no damage is present in the light fixtures. After restoring the power supply, it is advisable to recheck the circuit or building to ensure there are no faults and that the emergency lights are fully charging. Ideally, this should be done before or after working hours to minimize any disruption.

It is important to note that high-risk task areas, such as those with moving machinery, vehicles, flammable materials or control rooms associated with potentially dangerous processes, may have different requirements for emergency lighting. These areas require specific illuminance levels and duration of operation to ensure the safe termination of processes and the evacuation of occupants.

In conclusion, regular testing of your emergency lighting system is vital to ensure its proper function during emergencies. By following the recommended testing frequencies and procedures, you can enhance the safety of your building and protect its occupants.

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