Emergency Lighting Maintenance

Under BS 5266, emergency lighting must be tested monthly and annually. The monthly test is a brief function check – each luminaire is switched on for a few seconds to confirm it operates correctly. The annual test is a full-duration discharge test where the batteries are run for their rated duration (usually three hours) to verify they can sustain illumination during a real power failure. All results must be recorded in a logbook.

The “responsible person” under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 is accountable. In most cases this is the building owner, landlord, or employer. If you lease commercial premises, check your lease to confirm whether the landlord or tenant is responsible. Regardless of who holds the duty, maintaining a compliant emergency lighting system is a legal requirement.

Failed units must be repaired or replaced promptly. Common issues include exhausted batteries, failed LED drivers, and damaged diffusers. We carry replacement batteries and common luminaires on our vans so most faults can be resolved on the same visit. After remedial work, we retest the affected units and update your logbook.

Emergency lighting is required in virtually all commercial, industrial, and public buildings. It is also required in Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and communal areas of blocks of flats. The requirement applies to all escape routes, open areas larger than 60 square metres, and high-risk task areas. If you’re unsure whether your premises need emergency lighting, we can carry out a free assessment.

Yes. Modern LED emergency luminaires are more energy-efficient, have longer battery life, and require less maintenance than older fluorescent units. We can replace individual fittings or upgrade your entire system. LED upgrades often reduce long-term maintenance costs because the lamps last significantly longer.