Emergency Light Testing

What is Emergency Light Testing?

Emergency Lighting is installed to activate in any situation when the main power supply is cut, this could be as a result of fire or a power cut. This lighting system operates automatically to give enough light to enable people to exit a property safely. Therefore it is important that these systems are regularly checked and maintained in accordance with British Standard guidelines.

How often should you be testing?

The frequency of emergency light testing can very much depend on individual systems, a general guide is to check them monthly and carry out a full duration test on an annual basis. The monthly checks are usually carried out in-house as they are generally just a flick test, the annual test requires a 3 hour test on each emergency light and must be carried out by a competent person.

Is Emergency Light Testing a legal requirement?

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, businesses must install emergency lighting in their premises by law. BS EN 1838 specifies escape and standby lighting requirements for businesses in the event of a power failure.