Emergency lighting inspection

Why it gets checked so often

Emergency lighting only matters on the day the mains fails. The batteries in emergency luminaires degrade quietly, so a fitting that looks fine can fail within minutes of losing power. That is why BS 5266 asks for a short monthly function test and a full annual duration test.

The monthly function test

Each luminaire is put into emergency mode briefly to confirm the lamp illuminates and the charging indicator is working. Many sites handle this in house once we have shown them how and set the logbook up. We are happy to do that.

The annual duration test

The full test runs the system on battery for its rated duration, usually three hours, then confirms every fitting was still lit at the end and recharges correctly. We schedule these outside occupied hours where we can, so the building is not left on depleted batteries during the working day.

What you receive

• A schedule of every luminaire and exit sign, located by area
• Pass and fail results for each fitting, with faults described plainly
• A completed certificate for your fire logbook
• A quote for any replacement fittings or batteries, with no obligation

Fitting it around your building

Duration tests are disruptive by nature. We work evenings, weekends and school holidays so the three hours land when the building is empty rather than when your staff are trying to work.