Emergency lighting testing makes sure people can find their way out when the power fails. A fire, a storm or an electrical fault can all cut the lights. Emergency lighting only comes on when something goes wrong, so faults can go unnoticed for months. That is why emergency lighting testing is a legal expectation for almost every business building in Lincolnshire. This guide explains the tests, how often you need them, what to record, and who can do them.
Is emergency lighting a legal requirement?
Yes, for most business premises. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 applies here. It says escape routes and exits must have emergency lighting where needed. The responsible person must also keep it in good working order. Your fire risk assessment should show where you need it.
The main British Standard is BS 5266-1, which was updated in 2025. It covers design, installation, testing and records. Insurers, fire risk assessors and Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue will all expect your system to follow it.
Types of emergency lighting
Escape route lighting lights corridors, stairs and exits. Open area lighting covers large spaces such as halls and open plan offices. High risk task lighting lets someone shut down dangerous machines safely. Exit signs show the way out.
Some fittings stay on all the time. These are called maintained fittings. Others only come on when the mains power fails. These are non maintained fittings.
How often do you need emergency lighting testing?
Monthly flick test. Each light and exit sign switches to battery for a short time, usually with a test key. The aim is to check that each one lights up. Afterwards, the power goes back on, and each fitting should start charging again. Keep the test short, so batteries do not drain.
Annual full duration test. Once a year, every fitting runs on battery for its full rated time. This is usually three hours. The test shows whether the batteries still last long enough. If a fitting fails early, it needs a new battery or a new fitting.
The annual test drains the system. So it is best done when the building is empty, or in sections. That way, some emergency lighting is always ready while batteries recharge.
Some buildings have self test systems. These run the tests and report faults on their own. However, someone still needs to check the results and act on them.
What should you record?
Log every test. A good log book records the date, the fittings tested and any faults. It also records the repairs and who did the work. In addition, keep records of the original installation and any changes. If a fire officer or insurer asks for proof, the log book is your evidence.
Who can carry out emergency lighting testing?
A trained member of staff can usually do the monthly flick test. They just need to know how to use the test switches and record faults. However, a competent person should carry out the annual test, fault finding and repairs. This is normally a qualified electrician or fire safety engineer.
Common emergency lighting faults
The faults we find most often are batteries that do not last, failed LEDs and damaged exit signs. Lost test keys are also common. So are fittings hidden behind shelving, and new rooms the original design never covered.
Seasonal sites often find batteries have weakened during quiet months. This includes holiday parks and golf clubs. Meanwhile, busy sites like gyms and leisure facilities and factories need careful planning around the annual test.
Emergency lighting testing and your fire alarm
Emergency lighting and fire alarms often have separate schedules. However, combining the visits saves time. It also keeps your records in one place. So if your emergency lighting testing is due, check your fire alarm maintenance at the same time. You can find out more about our fire alarm services or see our full range of services.
EMI Fire and Security tests, maintains and upgrades emergency lighting across Sleaford, Grantham, Lincoln and the rest of Lincolnshire. Get in touch for a free survey and quote.
Frequently asked questions
How long should emergency lighting last? Most systems run for three hours on battery. This is the normal standard where people may stay or return after an evacuation. A competent person can confirm what your building needs.
How much does emergency lighting testing cost? It depends on the number of fittings and how easy they are to reach. We give free, no obligation quotes. We can also combine testing with your fire alarm service.
Does a small business need emergency lighting? Very small premises with simple escape routes may need very little. However, most businesses need at least some. Your fire risk assessment should confirm this.
What if a light fails a test? Record the fault and fix it as soon as possible. Usually this means a new battery, lamp or fitting. Until then, think about whether you need temporary measures to keep escape routes safe.
