Annual Emergency Lighting Testing

Testing emergency lighting is a non-negotiable aspect of complying with your legal obligation to protect employees and customers. At Wells Electrical Contractors, we’re a CHAS and Construction Line-affiliated supplier of electrical systems, assisting your business in ensuring the highest standards of health and safety.

With over 65 years of collective experience, we assist countless firms in complying with their obligations outlined in the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

Streamline your compliance with our annual emergency lighting testing services today.

What is the annual test for emergency lighting?

Emergency lighting must be regularly tested to ensure it’s functional. These include daily visual inspections and monthly tests, known as “flick tests”. Each year, all businesses are required to conduct a full-scale functional test.

The full discharge test is outlined under BS 5266-1 and simulates a mains power failure. During the test, your main power circuit will be disconnected. Your emergency lighting system must then operate for its fully-rated duration, which is typically three hours.

Passing this test means that not only does each luminary have to remain switched on, but that it also maintains sufficient illumination. If your emergency lights fail to do so, you’ll be required to take remedial action to ensure your lights meet the minimum legal standards.

Annual inspection requirements for emergency lighting

BS-5266 governs emergency lighting standards in the UK, defining the technical requirements of all installations across commercial properties. It covers four areas: design specifications, installation, testing and maintenance schedules.

All business owners must conduct annual duration tests and meet the following requirements:

·  Full battery discharge test conducted by a registered professional.

·  Escape route lighting must be tested for a minimum of three hours.

·  Open area lighting must be tested for a minimum of one hour.

·  Minimum lighting levels must be maintained throughout the full duration of the test.

Additionally, although emergency lighting is tested as a complete system, each individual luminary is essentially tested independently. The failure of a single luminary means your business will need to take remedial action.

All testing activities must be recorded, including test dates, results, any remedial action, and the details of the technician who conducted the test. These must be made available for audit if your business is inspected by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) or other relevant bodies.

Penalties for non-compliance

Authorities may take action against businesses that fail to comply with emergency lighting regulations. Failure of an annual test and not following through on remedial action can result in several penalties, including:

·  Enforcement notices

·  Closure of your business

·  Fines of up to £5,000

·  Imprisonment of up to two years

Fire and rescue authorities regularly inspect commercial businesses. Plus, you may experience your insurance policy being voided if an accident occurs and you are found to be in non-compliance.

Our annual emergency lighting testing services

At Wells Electrical Contractors, we have supported businesses in complying with their emergency lighting testing requirements across the North West, including Smyths Toys. Our fully qualified electrical technicians are licensed to conduct these tests on behalf of your business.

As installers, testers and maintenance specialists, we provide a full range of services. Here’s a breakdown of what Wells Electrical Contractors can do for your firm.

Full-duration tests 

Your annual full-duration test is the one test that cannot be performed by a non-professional. It must be conducted by a licensed professional, such as a contractor from Wells Electrical. We can conduct your tests at a time to suit you, minimising disruption to your business and ensuring that any issues are caught early.

Comprehensive emergency lighting reports

All businesses must supply sufficient paperwork demonstrating that they are in compliance and that the necessary testing has been performed. We provide a comprehensive report after your annual test, documenting any issues and any recommendations for repair and replacement.

Compliance support 

We know that maintaining compliance is an extra headache your business doesn’t need. Our experts provide ongoing compliance support, helping you to set up a regular testing and maintenance schedule.

Emergency lighting maintenance 

Our electrical engineers don’t just perform tests and point out issues. We are also equipped to intervene to repair or replace luminaries. Our proactive emergency lighting services guarantee long-term functionality and address any issues before they put lives at risk.

Other testing services 

Your annual test is just one of the types of tests your firm must conduct. We also provide other forms of testing, such as monthly flick tests. Outsourcing the issue to the professionals doesn’t just save you time, it reduces the risk that your emergency lights fail when you need them most.

At Wells Electrical Contractors, we are proud to provide emergency lighting system design, installation, testing, and maintenance services. With nearly seven decades of experience, we give you the peace of mind you need via our NICEIC-approved contractors. To schedule your emergency lighting testing slot, contact us today.