Emergency lighting should be tested at least every 30 days and once a year. In practice, building codes and fire safety experts call for a quick 30-second functional test of all emergency lights and exit signs every month, plus a full duration test once a year. In other words, about every 30 days you cut power (or use the test button) to make sure each light comes on for at least 30 seconds, and one time per year you simulate a prolonged outage to verify the lights run on battery power and stay lit for the required duration.
Many fire codes (NFPA in the U.S., BS 5266 in the U.K., etc.) explicitly mandate this schedule. The monthly test is brief: press the test switch or cut the mains so the fixtures switch to battery backup for about 30 seconds. This check confirms each lamp lights up and stays on for the full half-minute. Performing the test for a full 30 seconds is crucial, because some failing batteries will only power the lamp for a few seconds and then die. By testing for 30 seconds, you expose hidden failures and ensure the battery is truly good.
Monthly (30-Second) Tests
- Procedure: Every 30 days, activate each emergency light’s test mode (push the test button or use a key-switch to cut power) so it runs on batteryr. Check that the lamp or LED comes on immediately and remains illuminated for the full 30 seconds.
- Why: This brief test catches obvious failures. A full 30-second burn-time prevents being fooled by batteries that only hold a “surface charge” and would fail quickly without a longer test.
- Record: Log each monthly test, noting the date and any problems. Replace weak batteries or bad bulbs right away. Keeping written records of every test is typically required by code and will be vital during inspections.
The annual test is more extensive. Once a year, simulate a complete blackout by turning off the main power to the emergency lighting circuits. In the U.S., that usually means running all lights on battery for 90 minutes; in the U.K., BS 5266 requires a three-hour (180-minute) test. During this test, every emergency luminaire must remain illuminated for the full duration. If any light goes out early or dims, repair or replace it and repeat the test. After that, restore power and verify each unit recharges properly.
Annual (Full-Duration) Tests
- Procedure: For each emergency lighting circuit, cut off the normal power and run the lights on battery power for their full rated time (usually 90–180 minutes). Observe that all fixtures remain bright throughout.
- Why: A full-duration load test verifies that batteries and power supplies hold enough charge to light the way for an extended evacuation. It’s a real-world check that you won’t lose lighting halfway through an emergency.
- Record: Document the annual test date, duration, and results. Have a qualified technician or “competent person” carry out or oversee the test. Save the report and note any corrective actions. (Building inspectors will expect these records.) After the test, restore power and verify each unit recharges normally.
Keeping up with these tests and records is critical. Building codes and standards (OSHA, NFPA 101, NEC, etc.) generally require written logs of all emergency lighting tests. These logs should include who did the test, when, and any faults found. If an inspector or fire marshal asks, your test log (and receipts for any repairs) will prove you’re compliant. Any defects discovered during testing should be fixed immediately, ideally by a certified electrician, before you pass final inspection.
It’s wise to perform the annual outage test during a low-occupancy time (for example, at the end of a workday) to minimize disruption. Just ensure that if a light were to fail unexpectedly, people won’t be in danger. Remember: regular testing isn’t just a paperwork exercise – it saves lives by making sure exit routes stay lit during a real emergency, and it keeps you out of legal trouble for non-compliance.Testing emergency lights on schedule keeps your building safe and code-compliant.
GMW Fire Protection offers professional emergency lighting inspection and testing services. Our certified technicians follow all NFPA and local code guidelines, handling monthly and annual tests plus any needed repairs. Contact GMW Fire Protection today to schedule your emergency lighting maintenance and ensure your facility stays fully protected.