Emergency Light Testing Frequency

MAINTAINING YOUR EMERGENCY LIGHTING SYSTEM

So, there are a bunch of emergency lighting options out there, and CSE Electrical has got you covered with all of them. Our team can handle everything from setting up your system to keeping it in top shape. We've got both "non-maintained" and "maintained" fittings available.

Maintained Emergency Lighting - This type of system is pretty straightforward. It works like a regular light fitting, linking up with your other lights. When the power goes out, it switches to a lower light level but keeps shining. Just remember, it needs regular maintenance.

Non-Maintained Emergency Lighting - These lights usually stay off but have a handy green LED to show the batteries are good to go. If there's a power cut, they kick in using the battery. They're not connected to your main lights and are typically used for emergency exit signs.

Combined Emergency Lighting - With this setup, you get two or more lights. One runs on normal power, while the other kicks in with emergency power. It can be either non-maintained or maintained, giving you some flexibility.

• Emergency Escape Lighting - When the power goes out, this lighting automatically switches on. It's bright enough to guide everyone out of the building safely.
  

Similar to any emergency equipment, it is crucial to regularly test and upkeep your emergency lighting solutions to guarantee their optimal functionality. The frequency of maintenance required for your lighting system may vary based on its specific characteristics. As a rule of thumb, it is advisable to assess and potentially service your emergency lighting system periodically. By doing so, you can uphold its reliability and performance, ensuring that it remains ready to provide illumination in critical situations when needed the most.

**DAILY EMERGENCY LIGHTING TEST**

Perform a routine check to ensure proper operation. Take a leisurely walk around the premises and visually inspect the neon indicator lamps for illumination. This quick check can help you spot any immediate issues with the emergency lighting system.

**MONTHLY TEST**

Conducting a monthly test is highly recommended to ensure that all components are functioning optimally. This brief functional test aligns with the standards outlined in BS EN 50172:2004 / BS 5266-8:2004. Switch off the main power source and verify that each emergency light activates as expected. Inspect the light casings for any signs of damage or dirt accumulation. Restore power to the main system and confirm that the emergency system is recharging properly. Maintain a detailed logbook to document your test results. Promptly address any failures that you identify during the test.

**SIX MONTHLY EMERGENCY LIGHTING TEST**

Conduct a thorough test lasting at least one hour for a three-hour rated emergency lighting system. This test ensures that the system can provide adequate lighting for the specified duration in case of an emergency.

**ANNUAL TEST**

Schedule a comprehensive annual test for your emergency lighting system. The test should last for three hours. This is to ensure that your system can provide three hours of light during a power outage. It is important to follow the yearly testing schedule to make sure your emergency lights work properly and reliably.

Regularly test and maintain your emergency lighting system to keep occupants safe during emergencies. Regular testing helps identify and address issues with emergency lights before they escalate. This proactive approach ensures that your system functions optimally. Fixing problems early on prevents them from becoming more serious. Ultimately, regular testing improves the overall performance of your emergency lights.

WHEN SHOULD YOU CONSIDER PERFORMING YOUR TESTS?

When determining the optimal timing for conducting your system test, it's crucial to consider several key factors:

Risk Factor: After testing your emergency systems, your building may be at risk if the system's battery is drained. It's advisable to schedule tests during low-risk periods. For many businesses, this translates to after regular work hours. Can safety testing be spread out in buildings where people live permanently, such as hospitals or apartment complexes? For example, can testing be done gradually over a period of time rather than all at once? This could help ensure that safety measures are consistently maintained and updated. It is important to prioritize the safety of residents in these types of buildings. Do you have interim measures in place until the emergency system batteries are fully recharged?

Effectiveness: Ensure that your test yields accurate and dependable results. For instance, evaluating your lighting system in bright daylight might not provide an accurate assessment of its performance. It's essential to choose a time when you can effectively gauge the efficiency of the system.

Convenience: Take into account the most convenient time for your organization or facility. During fire alarm system maintenance, test your emergency lighting system simultaneously to streamline the process and minimize disruptions. This will help ensure that both systems are functioning properly and efficiently. By conducting both tests at once, you can save time and effort. Additionally, it allows you to address any issues or malfunctions promptly.

Regulatory Compliance: Verify that your testing schedule aligns with any regulatory requirements or industry standards. Some regulations may dictate specific testing frequencies or timeframes that must be adhered to.

Communication: Inform all relevant stakeholders about the scheduled testing to ensure awareness and cooperation. This includes building occupants, maintenance staff, and any other parties who may be impacted by the testing process.

Documentation: Keep detailed records of the testing schedule, results, and any issues encountered during the process. This documentation can serve as a valuable reference for future testing and maintenance activities.

By thinking about these things and planning your system tests carefully, you can make sure your emergency systems are safe, efficient, and follow the rules, while also reducing disruptions and risks for people in the building.