Emergency Lighting schemes must comply with European legislation and regulations
When considering the installation of your emergency lighting there are legislations and regulations that you must adhere to. Emergency lighting design schemes should be used when it comes to your installation as it will provide you with required lighting levels and protect occupants of the building with an escape route, open area and high risk task lighting.
When the scheme is installed the luminaires should be properly maintained and ready to perform in the event of an emergency. Testing should be carried out regularly to make sure the systems are fit for purpose and working effectively. Testing should be carried out by the building operator.
Test Frequency Nature of Test Purpose of test
Daily Check all LED charging indicators are in operation Ensure all batteries are being charged
Monthly Conduct a functional test for all emergency luminaires Check that the luminaire will operate in the emergency mode
Annually Perform full 3 hour duration test for all emergency luminaires Confirm that the battery capacity will operate the product for the required 3 hour period
Testing Emergency Lighting Products
All emergency lighting products have to be tested regularly to conform to the requirements of European Law. The above chart (EN50172) shows the precise nature and frequency of testing as standard.
For each emergency fitting a full record sheet needs to be provided, each sheet must be available for inspection by the authorities at any time. Failure to present these sheets can result in legal action and closure of the building. If the emergency lighting is defective in any way the insurance policy for the building may be invalid and the building operator could face a large fine or imprisonment.
