Emergency lighting does one job: it lights the way out when the normal lights fail. If it has not been tested, you do not know whether it will work on the day you need it. The testing routine itself is simple and is set out in BS 5266-1, the UK code of practice for emergency lighting.
The monthly test
Every month, each emergency light fitting should be tested briefly to prove it switches to its battery supply and lights up. This is often called a flick test, because the mains supply to the light is interrupted briefly, either with a test key or by a switch on the circuit.
- Walk the building and check each luminaire and exit sign in turn.
- Confirm that the indicator light shows the unit is healthy and charging.
- Check that lights are not blocked, covered or damaged.
- Record the result and report any failure for repair.
Doing this out of hours, or while the building is quiet, helps avoid unnecessary alarm among staff and visitors.
The annual full-duration test
Once a year, the batteries are tested for their full rated duration, normally three hours. All emergency lights must remain lit throughout, and the lights are then recharged. The test proves the batteries can still do the job they were designed for.
This test drains the batteries, so it is best done when the building is unoccupied, or with temporary lighting arranged until the batteries recharge. Many businesses book it for a time when the premises are closed.
Central battery systems
Larger buildings may use a central battery system rather than individual fittings with their own battery. These need regular checks of the central supply as well, and your maintenance contractor will tell you which routine applies.
What should be recorded?
Keep a logbook with the date of each test, who did it, the result, any defects found and the action taken. It is the proof of compliance if your insurer, fire authority or landlord asks, and it shows you are meeting your duties under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
Common faults
- Batteries that no longer hold charge.
- Failed lamps or LED modules.
- Fittings that are covered by new fit-out, ceiling tiles or signs.
- Switched-off circuits, so the light never charges.
- Poor coverage after the layout of the building has changed.
Plan for change
If you move walls, change your layout or alter the use of a room, your emergency lighting may no longer cover the escape routes properly. It is worth having your design reviewed after any significant change.
We design, install, test and maintain emergency lighting for businesses across London and the Home Counties. See our emergency lighting service, or read whether your premises need emergency lighting.
Frequently asked questions
What is a flick test?
A monthly functional test that simulates a mains failure, usually with a test key, to check that each emergency light switches to battery and lights up. It is short and the building stays in normal use.
Why is there a three-hour test?
Most emergency lighting is designed to last three hours, so once a year each light is run on battery for its full rated duration to prove the batteries can do it.
Who can test emergency lighting?
A competent person can carry out the monthly check, which is often done in-house. The annual duration test is usually carried out by a competent contractor who can also deal with faults.