Emergency Light Testing Explained: A Guide for Commercial Properties

In an emergency, when every second counts, reliable emergency lighting can save lives. Whether it's a fire, power cut, or evacuation scenario, these lights guide people to safety. But how can you be sure they’ll work when needed most? The answer lies in regular, compliant emergency light testing.

We'll explain why emergency light testing is essential, what the UK regulations require, and how commercial property owners can remain compliant, safe, and legally protected.

What Is Emergency Lighting?

Emergency lighting is a standalone lighting system designed to activate automatically during a power failure.

When the primary electrical supply is interrupted, emergency lights illuminate escape routes, exit doors, stairways, and key safety equipment. They’re crucial for preventing panic and ensuring the safe evacuation of building occupants—especially in large or complex buildings.

Why Every Commercial Property Needs Emergency Lighting

It's not just a safety feature—it's a legal and moral responsibility.

Any commercial property that is occupied by staff, customers, or the public must have appropriate emergency lighting in place. This includes:

• Offices and business centres

• Factories and warehouses

• Shops and retail outlets

• Schools and universities

• Hotels and restaurants

• Public buildings and community halls

Without properly installed and maintained emergency lights, evacuating during an emergency could become hazardous or even fatal.

UK Legal Framework for Emergency Lighting Compliance

Understanding the legal responsibilities helps property owners and facility managers avoid fines and protect lives.

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005

This is the primary fire safety legislation in England and Wales. It mandates that every workplace must have "adequate emergency lighting" and requires the "responsible person" to ensure systems are installed and maintained correctly.

BS 5266-1 Code of Practice

This British Standard sets out the design, installation, and maintenance requirements for emergency lighting systems. Adherence to BS 5266-1 demonstrates compliance and is often reviewed by fire authorities and insurers.

The Role of the Responsible Person

In every commercial building, there must be a designated “responsible person.” This could be an employer, building manager, facilities officer, or landlord.

Their duties include:

• Ensuring emergency lighting is installed correctly

• Maintaining regular testing routines

• Keeping accurate records of tests and inspections

• Taking corrective action when faults are identified

Failing to perform these duties can lead to enforcement actions, including substantial fines or prosecution.

Types of Emergency Lighting Explained

Understanding the different types of emergency lighting helps in choosing the right setup and testing protocol.

Maintained Lighting

These lights are on at all times and switch to battery power during a power cut. Ideal for areas in constant use like corridors in cinemas or hotels.

Non-Maintained Lighting

They remain off during normal conditions and activate only during a power failure. These are common in offices, storage rooms, and standard commercial environments.

Combined Emergency Luminaires

These feature both maintained and non-maintained components within the same unit, offering flexible coverage for mixed-use spaces.

Key Locations That Must Have Emergency Lighting

To comply with regulations and ensure effective evacuation, emergency lighting must be installed in:

• All exit routes

• Stairwells

• Lift areas

• Fire alarm call points

• Firefighting equipment locations (e.g., extinguishers, hose reels)

• Plant rooms and switch rooms

• Toilets (especially for the disabled)

How Often Should Emergency Lighting Be Tested?

Emergency lighting must be tested regularly, and the frequency is defined by both UK law and British Standards.

Daily Visual Inspection (for self-contained systems)

A quick check to ensure charging indicators are operational. Typically done by the facility manager or security staff.

Monthly Functional Test

A short test to confirm each emergency light works correctly. This is a simulated power failure, lasting a few seconds to one minute.

Annual Full Duration Test

This simulates a real emergency by cutting mains power for the full rated duration (usually 3 hours). The lights must remain on throughout. This test must be carried out by a competent person and documented.

Emergency Light Testing Step-by-Step

Here’s what to expect when conducting tests—or what professionals will perform on your behalf.

1. Prepare the Area

Choose a safe time to test. Inform occupants, especially in 24/7 facilities. Make sure no work will be disrupted.

2. Simulate a Power Cut

This is done using a key switch or isolating the circuit. Each emergency light must come on immediately and clearly illuminate its designated area.

3. Inspect Functionality

Check for dim lighting, flickering, or total failure. Record any issues.

4. Allow Full Discharge (Annual Test)

Ensure lights remain operational for the full duration. Note any that fail before time.

5. Restore Power and Recharge

Turn mains back on and confirm charging indicators are active. Batteries should be left to recharge fully.

6. Record Results

Document every test in the fire safety logbook, including pass/fail results, duration, and any corrective action taken.

How Long Should Emergency Lights Stay On?

The British Standard BS 5266-1 recommends a minimum duration of 3 hours for all emergency lights in commercial buildings.

This duration ensures there’s sufficient time for a safe evacuation, for emergency responders to arrive, and for essential systems to shut down or stabilise if needed.

What Should You Record in Your Emergency Lighting Logbook?

Accurate records are vital for demonstrating compliance to fire authorities and insurers. Include the following:

• Date and time of the test

• Areas tested

• Lights inspected

• Duration of test (monthly or annual)

• Pass or fail status for each light

• Name of the tester or engineer

• Details of any remedial action required

Common Emergency Lighting Faults

Regular testing helps uncover problems before they become life-threatening.

Battery Failure

If the battery won’t hold a charge, the light won’t stay on during an outage. This is the most frequent fault.

Bulb/LED Burnout

Even energy-efficient LEDs degrade over time. Dim or failed lights must be replaced immediately.

Wiring Issues

Loose connections, corroded terminals, or damage from rodents or moisture can all lead to system failure.

Incorrect Installation

Sometimes, emergency lighting is positioned poorly—leaving parts of the escape route in darkness.

Emergency Lighting Maintenance Tips

Beyond testing, regular maintenance helps prevent failure and ensures longevity.

• Clean lenses and fittings to maximise light output

• Replace old or damaged units

• Perform battery capacity checks

• Upgrade outdated systems to energy-efficient LEDs

• Check positioning and compliance with layout drawings

Benefits of Professional Emergency Light Testing

While monthly tests can be done in-house, annual tests must be handled by a qualified provider.

Here’s why outsourcing is recommended:

• Ensures full compliance with BS 5266-1

• Detects hidden faults with professional-grade equipment

• Reduces liability in case of incident

• Frees up internal resources

• Provides certified test reports

At Global Compliance UK, we provide detailed assessments and documentation that satisfy insurers, auditors, and enforcement officers alike.

Emergency Lighting & Fire Safety Integration

Emergency lighting doesn’t work in isolation—it’s part of a larger fire safety ecosystem.

It should be coordinated with:

• Fire alarms

• Fire extinguishers

• Evacuation plans

• Fire doors and signage

• Smoke ventilation systems

A well-integrated approach increases the chance of a safe and efficient evacuation during emergencies.

Upgrading Emergency Lighting Systems: What to Consider

If your system is over 10 years old, or you’re still using halogen or fluorescent units, it’s time to consider upgrading.

Advantages of LED Emergency Lighting:

• Uses up to 80% less energy

• Longer service life (up to 50,000 hours)

• Lower maintenance costs

• Brighter and more effective illumination

Consider Adding:

• Self-test units – Perform automatic diagnostics

• Central battery systems – Better for large buildings

• Smart monitoring platforms – Real-time alerts and logs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is emergency lighting mandatory in all UK commercial buildings?

Yes. The Fire Safety Order 2005 and BS 5266-1 make emergency lighting compulsory in all non-domestic premises.

What happens if I fail to test my emergency lighting?

You could face enforcement notices, invalid insurance, prosecution, and increased liability if an accident occurs.

Do I need to test during daylight hours?

Not necessarily, but testing during hours of low occupancy is best to avoid disruption and allow observation of the lighting's effectiveness.

Why Work With Global Compliance UK?

At Global Compliance UK, we understand the importance of safety and compliance. With our expertise in fire safety, electrical compliance, and emergency lighting systems, we help ensure:

• Full legal compliance with the Fire Safety Order and BS 5266-1

• Minimal disruption during inspections

• Transparent reporting and actionable results

• Peace of mind knowing your premises are protected

We work across all sectors—from offices and retail to industrial and healthcare settings.

Conclusion

If you haven’t tested your emergency lighting recently—or if you’re unsure whether your system is legally compliant—now is the time to act. Don’t leave the safety of your staff and visitors to chance.

Call us today on 0330 100 5341 or email info@global-compliance.co.uk to arrange a professional emergency lighting inspection or annual test.

Let us help you keep your people safe, your building compliant, and your business protected.