Emergency escape lighting should be tested with a short function test every month and a full duration test every year, usually lasting three hours, following the British Standard for emergency lighting, BS 5266-1. Every test, fault and repair should be written down.
In England the duty sits with the responsible person under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. That covers workplaces and other non-domestic premises, including the common areas of multi-occupied residential buildings, where the responsible person is usually the landlord, freeholder or managing agent.
The monthly function test
The monthly test is a short check, often called a flick test. A competent person simulates a mains failure, usually with the secure test key fitted next to the light switch rather than by turning off the main supply, and confirms that every emergency luminaire comes on.
- Check each fitting lights up when the supply is interrupted.
- Look for damaged, dirty or missing diffusers and signs.
- Restore the supply and check the charging indicators come back on.
- Report any fault to the responsible person so it can be fixed.
The annual duration test
Once a year the system is tested for its full rated duration, typically three hours. The normal lighting circuit is switched off and every luminaire should stay lit for the whole period. A fitting that fades early usually has a battery at the end of its life.
Because the batteries are flat afterwards, plan the test for a time when the building is quiet or unoccupied. Manufacturer guidance commonly expects batteries to recharge fully within about 24 hours, so the escape route has reduced cover until then.
Records to keep
- A location reference for every emergency light.
- The date and result of each monthly and annual test.
- Any faults found and the action taken to fix them.
- Installation, alteration and servicing certificates.
A log book on site works for a single building. Across several sites, a shared digital register makes it easier to see what is overdue and to prove the work was done.
Self-test systems
Many newer fittings test themselves on a schedule and report faults on an indicator or a central panel. They reduce the walking-round time, but someone still has to review the results, record them and arrange repairs.
How Apex helps
We carry out emergency lighting testing, repairs and record keeping for offices, retail sites and residential buildings as part of fire safety and compliance, and can add it to a planned preventative maintenance schedule alongside alarm servicing. This guide is general information. Your fire risk assessment and a competent person should confirm what your building needs.