Why Test Emergency Lights?

Emergency lights are crucial for guiding occupants to safety during power outages or emergencies. Regular testing of your emergency lighting is an obligation under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The minimum requirements of emergency light inspection and testing are outlined in BS EN 50172:2024 with identified responsible persons having a legal obligation to ensure their emergency lighting installation is maintained in accordance with and BS 5266-1:2016 the Code of Practice for the Emergency Lighting of Premises.

Types of Emergency Light Testing:

As a minimum, an annual test of emergency lighting should be completed to ensure compliance with statutory requirements. However, there are other, more frequent tests that should be completed throughout the year. The benefit of these is to identify issues early on, and in much lower quantities, helping to smooth the cost of repairs over a longer period, and also improve the longevity of the lighting and batteries. Types of testing can include:

• Regular “Flick” Test: a simple switch “flick” test, to switch lighting into emergency mode and illuminate the emergency lights. The purpose of this test is to immediately identify any emergency lights that do not illuminate at all, meaning a replacement light is required. For large buildings such as schools or offices, this can be done in zones, with a different zone of the building tested each day across a week.
• 6 Monthly Test: Testing which switches lighting into emergency mode and leaves emergency lights in operation for 1 hour. This test will partially discharge the battery in the lights helping to ensure that the battery has some operation. This test can help to identify batteries in need of replacement ahead of a full annual test where the battery will need to remain in use for a longer period. Partially draining the battery and then recharging it when mains power is restored, can also help to prolong its life, reducing the frequency of repairs and battery replacements needed.
• Annual Test: This test switches the lighting into emergency mode where it will be left usually for 3 hours. After this point, the lighting can be checked and any lights no longer illuminated will require repair, for example replacement batteries may be needed or in some cases a replacement light.

Our Emergency Light Testing Services Include:

• Visual Inspections: Thorough check of the emergency lights for physical damage, proper installation, and adequate positioning.
• Battery Testing: We verify that all emergency lights are equipped with batteries that meet the required duration standards.
• Functionality Check: Ensuring the lights automatically activate during a power failure and remain illuminated for the required duration (usually 3 hours or more).
• Detailed Reporting: After the test, we provide certification to confirm the testing has been completed and a report which outlines the condition of your emergency lighting, identifies any issues that need attention, and offers recommendations for repairs or upgrades.

Why Choose Saunders?

• Testing Schedules that Work for You: We can work with you to implement a testing schedule that works for you and your budget. Whether that is an annual test, or a comprehensive testing schedule including regular “flick” testing, 6 monthly testing and annual testing, we can provide you with a solution that meets your needs.
• Experienced Technicians: Our team has years of experience in emergency lighting, and we understand the intricacies of emergency lighting compliance.
• Prompt and Reliable: We understand the urgency of keeping your emergency lights in working order and will work with your schedule to complete testing quickly and efficiently.
• Cost-Effective Solutions: We offer competitive pricing, without compromising on the quality of our service.

Book Your Emergency Light Testing Now