Emergency lighting exists for the moment the mains fails during a fire. BS 5266-1 and BS EN 50172 set out a simple regime to make sure it will work: test it briefly every month and for its full duration every year, and write down the result.
The monthly function test
Mains power to the emergency lighting circuit is interrupted, usually by a key switch, for long enough to confirm that every luminaire and exit sign illuminates from its battery. Power is restored and the charging indicators are checked. The test is recorded in the logbook with any failures. It takes minutes and can be done by a trained member of staff.
The annual full duration test
Once a year each luminaire is run on battery for its full rated duration, normally three hours, to prove the battery can still deliver. The luminaires are then checked for recharging. Because the building is left with depleted batteries for several hours afterwards, the test should be timed for a period of low risk and, in larger buildings, staged across areas so cover is never lost entirely. A competent person issues a certificate with a luminaire-by-luminaire schedule.
Self-test and addressable systems
Self-test luminaires carry out the monthly and annual tests automatically and show the result on an indicator LED. Addressable systems report to a central controller. Neither removes the need for someone to inspect the results and record them; they change the visit from a test to a verification, which is faster and less disruptive but still required.
Housing blocks
In blocks of flats the common parts emergency lighting is the landlord’s responsibility and the monthly test is usually carried out by the contractor as part of the compliance programme. Programme compliance and no-access are reported monthly, and the certificates form part of the evidence residents can ask for under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022.
Can our caretaker do the monthly test?
Yes, if trained. The monthly function test is a short simulated mains failure using the test key switch, followed by a visual check that every luminaire lit. The annual duration test and the certificate should come from a competent person.
What if a luminaire fails the three-hour test?
The battery has reached the end of its life and must be replaced. Batteries typically last four years. We carry stock on the van so most failures are fixed on the day.