Emergency Lighting Inspection and Testing Requirements

Emergency Lighting To BS5266: Part 1

According to BS5266: Part1: 2005, testing regimes for Emergency Lighting are becoming more stringent, testing is a legal requirement and you should always retain documented records. The standards require the following frequency of testing:

As the user, it is up to you if you wish to carry out the Daily, Monthly and Quarterly checks. However, it is recommended that the Annual and six monthly checks are undertaken by a responsible competent person.

• Daily – check the luminaire is charging
• Monthly – operational check
• Quarterly – one third of rated duration check
• Yearly – full duration check

The Emergency Lighting British standards BS5266: Part 1: 2005 also recommend what needs checking and testing:

• The mains are present and healthy
• Batteries are present and in circuit
• Batteries are charging
• Emergency circuit and module are fully operational
• Lamps are functional
• Appropriate duration