Do you know the requirements for emergency lighting testing?

Emergency lighting is illumination that may be used in case of a mains power outage, which is frequently caused by a fire or power outage. A mains power outage might cause unexpected darkness, which could cause fear among building inhabitants and put them in risk. The purpose of emergency lighting is to automatically switch on and provide enough light for individuals to safely evacuate a facility. Given its crucial function in ensuring public safety, it is crucial that this lighting is routinely inspected and maintained in compliance with British Standard recommendations.

What emergency lighting should my building have?
UK fire safety legislation states that emergency lighting is required in buildings to provide light if normal lighting fails during a fire.

For anyone who must leave a facility in an emergency situation like a fire or power outage, emergency escape lighting offers illumination. Additionally, illumination for the escape path is included. This lighting makes it possible for building residents to recognize and utilise their escape routes in an emergency. This lighting must be installed as part of a building's fire safety plan and is mandated by The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

Lighting for high-risk job areas ensures the security of those engaged in potentially hazardous procedures. This illumination makes it possible to carry out the correct shut-down processes for the protection of the operator and other building occupants.

In the case of a mains power outage, standby lighting allows for the continuation of routine building operations. Although not legally required, standby lighting is a feature that some buildings may require based on their purpose and occupancy.

In places that can be deemed "hazardous," such as industrial kitchens or plant rooms, you require emergency lights. Emergency lighting is advised if your building has rooms greater than 60 square meters.

How long do emergency lights need to stay on?

This depends on the size and complexity of your building and the time it would take to evacuate. The minimum duration for an emergency escape lighting system is one hour. One hour’s duration should only be used if the premises are evacuated immediately on power supply failure and it is not reoccupied until full capacity has been restored to the batteries.

A minimum duration of 3 hours should be used for emergency escape lighting if the premises are not evacuated immediately. The 3 hour time frame allows the fire brigade time to work in the event of a fire after all of the building’s occupants have been safely evacuated.
 

How often should my emergency lighting system be tested?

You should inspect your emergency lights twice a year, or at least weekly.

The emergency lighting unit's primary power source must be turned off once a month. It is common practice to install a separate switch with a "fish key" that allows emergency lights to be tested without turning off the entire power source. You must pass by each emergency light to make sure they are operational once the mains supply has been shut off. If there are any flaws, they must be fixed right away. The outcomes of your monthly inspections should be included in your fire safety logbook.

Every year, emergency lighting units need to have their main power source turned off before being left on for an extended length of time. Throughout the whole period, the lights should be on. The backup batteries for all emergency lights must be changed if they stop working within this time frame.

Is it necessary by law to test emergency lighting?
According to UK fire standards, emergency lights must be tested monthly by being switched on and off and must have a complete servicing once a year. The most recent British Standard advises doing a 3-hour emergency lighting test once a year, which involves turning off your main light circuit and leaving your emergency lights on for 3-hours to determine whether any batteries need to be replaced.