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      01/08/2024

      Emergency Lighting Maintenance Checklist

      It’s a common misconception that emergency lights will always work once installed. But, like any system designed to protect lives, you should regularly test and maintain your emergency lighting system, especially as most do not alert you to a problem or potential issue. Want to ensure that your emergency lighting systems are fully functioning? Our latest blog details all the instructions to make sure you’re covered.

      What are emergency lights?

      Emergency lighting is a critical safety feature in buildings, ensuring visibility during power outages to enable safe evacuation and continuous operation. It includes two main types: emergency escape lighting, which facilitates safe exit paths in emergencies by illuminating escape routes, and standby lighting, which supports ongoing activities during power failures to maintain essential functions. As mandated by regulations, emergency lighting must be installed in non-domestic buildings to ensure safety at all times, regardless of mains power availability. If you have an emergency lighting system installed, you should activate it monthly and perform a full discharge test at least once a year.

      What You Can Do – Task Checklist

      Monthly Checks

      Monthly emergency lighting checks are essential to ensure their reliability in critical situations. These checks typically involve activating each emergency light unit to ensure it functions properly when mains power is cut. This can be done manually by pressing the test button on each unit, which simulates a power failure and verifies that the lights illuminate as intended. It’s important to document the results of these tests in your fire safety log book to maintain compliance with safety regulations and to promptly address any issues identified during testing. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of batteries or faulty units are crucial to guarantee that emergency lighting systems are always ready to provide necessary illumination in emergencies.

      Here’s a list of tasks you can complete between annual maintenance visits from a service provider like Sygma.

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      Visual Inspection

      • Check for Physical Damage: Inspect all emergency lighting units for any signs of physical damage.
      • Cleanliness and Visibility: Ensure all lights are clean and free from obstructions.
      • Exit Sign Illumination: Verify that all exit signs are illuminated and clearly visible.

      Functional Test

      • Simulate Power Failure: Conduct a brief test by simulating a power failure (typically using the test switch).
      • Operational Check: Ensure all emergency lights turn on and remain on for at least 30 seconds.
      • Light and Sign Functionality: Check that all lights and exit signs illuminate properly without flickering.

      Battery and Charge Indicator Check

      • Charge Indicator: Verify that the charge indicator light is on and steady.

      Log Maintenance Activities

      • Record Keeping: Maintain a log of all inspections, tests, and maintenance activities, including dates, findings, and corrective actions taken.

      Training and Awareness

      • Staff Training: Train staff on the importance of emergency lighting and how to report any issues.
      • Emergency Procedures: Ensure employees are aware of emergency procedures and the location of emergency lights and exits.

      If you would prefer for a qualified professional to carry out all of your emergency lighting maintenance tasks, speak to Sygma today for a free quotation.

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      Sygma’s Annual Emergency Lighting Maintenance Tasks

      During an annual emergency lighting check, you should opt for a professional registered fire safety service to conduct a thorough assessment to ensure the emergency lighting system operates effectively and complies with safety standards. This comprehensive inspection includes testing each light unit by fully discharging them to verify their endurance and reliability during prolonged power failures. They will assess the condition of batteries, bulbs, and control systems to identify any signs of wear, damage, or malfunction that could compromise the system’s performance.

      They will also review documentation and maintenance records to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements. Recommendations for repairs or replacements will be provided as necessary to maintain optimal functioning and readiness of the emergency lighting system for future emergencies.

      As well as offering comprehensive maintenance packages covering all of the above mentioned checks, Sygma carry out annual checks for businesses looking to stick to a tighter budget. During your annual emergency lighting maintenance visit from Sygma, our experienced electricians will perform the following tasks:

      Battery and Charge Indicator Check

      • Battery Inspection: Check for any signs of battery corrosion or leakage.

      Extended Functional Test

      • Simulate Extended Power Failure: Simulate a power failure and let the emergency lighting system run for the full duration required by local regulations (usually 90 minutes).
      • Duration Check: Ensure all lights stay on for the entire duration without significant dimming.

      Battery Condition Check

      • Voltage Measurement: Measure battery voltage to ensure it meets the manufacturer’s specifications.
      • Aging Signs: Look for signs of battery aging, such as swelling or leaking.

      Lighting Levels and Coverage

      • Illumination Check: Verify that emergency lighting provides adequate illumination throughout all areas, including exits, stairways, and other critical locations.
      • Light Measurement: Measure light levels using a lux meter to ensure compliance with standards.

      Full Discharge and Recharge Cycle

      Discharge and Recharge: Conduct a full discharge of the emergency lighting system, allowing the batteries to completely deplete and then fully recharge.
      Recharge Monitoring: Monitor the recharge process to ensure batteries return to full charge within the time specified by the manufacturer.

      Professional Inspection

      • Comprehensive Inspection: Schedule a comprehensive inspection by a licensed electrician or professional service provider.
      • Wiring and Component Check: Ensure all wiring, connections, and components are in good condition and meet current codes and standards.

      Component Testing and Replacement

      • Individual Component Testing: Test individual components such as bulbs, LEDs, and batteries to confirm functionality.
      • Component Replacement: Replace any components that are worn out or no longer meet performance standards.

      Documentation and Compliance

      • Record Accessibility: Ensure records are easily accessible for regulatory review and internal audits.

      Compliance Verification

      • Regulation Review: Regularly review local codes and regulations to ensure your emergency lighting system complies with the latest requirements.
      • Maintenance Practice Updates: Update your maintenance practices as needed to align with any changes in regulations.

      System Upgrades

      • Periodic Evaluation: Periodically evaluate the emergency lighting system to consider upgrades, especially if your facility undergoes changes or expansions.

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      To ensure that Emergency Lighting Systems function within the guidelines of UK law, all emergency lights must be serviced by a qualified technician at least once a year. Speak to Sygma today to receive a quotation for a maintenance visit for your commercial premises.