Emergency Lights Maintenance Checklist for Facilities Managers in London

Why Is Emergency Lights Maintenance Important?

Emergency lights are a legal requirement in nearly every type of non-domestic building in London. When a power failure occurs, these lights provide safe illuminated routes for evacuation.

Regular maintenance is essential not only for legal compliance but also for life safety.

Neglecting emergency lights maintenance can result in fines, invalidated insurance, or even criminal liability under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

How Often Should Emergency Lights Be Maintained in London?

In line with BS 5266-1 and UK fire safety regulations, emergency lighting systems must undergo:

• Monthly functional tests – typically performed in-house by a competent person

• Annual full-duration tests – performed by a qualified fire safety contractor

Additional servicing may be recommended based on building usage, occupancy, or findings of the fire risk assessment.

Emergency Lights Maintenance – Step-by-Step Checklist

1. Visual Inspection of Luminaires and Exit SignsEnsure all emergency light fittings are clean, undamaged, and clearly visible.Check for signs of corrosion, heat damage, or vandalism.

2. Functional Test (Monthly)Simulate power failure using a test key switch or manual circuit isolation.Confirm each unit illuminates correctly and provides sufficient light.

3. Full Discharge Test (Annually)Isolate the mains supply to the emergency lighting system.Allow the system to operate on battery for the full rated duration (usually 1 to 3 hours).Ensure all units remain operational throughout the test.

4. Battery and Control Equipment ChecksInspect battery condition, charge level, and voltage.Ensure central battery systems (if present) are functioning as intended.

5. Maintain Testing RecordsKeep a detailed log of all tests, including date, duration, units tested, and any defects found.This logbook must be accessible during fire brigade audits or insurance inspections.

6. Rectify Faults Without DelayReplace faulty luminaires, batteries, or fittings as soon as possible.All repairs must be completed by a qualified contractor using compatible parts.

   
   

Common Emergency Lights Maintenance Issues in London Buildings

• Damaged or missing luminaires

• Non-functioning battery backups

• Obstructed exit signage

• Incomplete or outdated logbooks

• No isolation switches for safe testing

These issues are frequently flagged during compliance checks or fire risk assessments.

Who Can Perform Emergency Lights Maintenance?

Monthly functional testing can be carried out by a competent in-house person (e.g. site manager or caretaker), provided they are trained.

Annual tests and all corrective maintenance should always be performed by a third-party certified fire safety provider to ensure full compliance.

Final Thoughts on Emergency Lights Maintenance in London

Emergency lights are often overlooked – until they’re needed.

Regular inspections, testing, and prompt repairs are essential to protecting life and complying with London’s fire safety laws.

Facilities managers must ensure that both routine and annual maintenance are scheduled, documented, and completed properly by competent individuals or accredited contractors.

Stay compliant with expertly maintained emergency lighting.

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