How Often Should Emergency Lighting Be Tested?
Emergency lighting testing is not optional — it is a legal requirement under UK fire safety legislation. The frequency of testing is set out in BS 5266-1, the British Standard for emergency lighting. Miss a test, or fail to record it properly, and you are in breach of your duty as a responsible person.
Monthly: Short Functional Test
Every month, all emergency luminaires must be put through a short duration test by simulating a mains failure. This confirms each light activates correctly. The test lasts just a few minutes — long enough to check operation, short enough not to significantly discharge the batteries. Results must be logged in an emergency lighting record book. This test is simple enough for a designated member of staff to carry out.
Every Six Months: Full Duration Test
Twice a year, the system must undergo a full rated duration test. For most self-contained emergency luminaires, the rated duration is three hours — so the test involves cutting mains power and leaving the emergency lights to run for the full three hours. Any light that fails before the end of the test requires battery replacement. This test is more disruptive and is typically planned outside normal working hours.
Annually: Full Inspection and Certification
Once a year, a qualified engineer should inspect the entire emergency lighting system and issue an emergency lighting certificate. The annual inspection includes a full duration test, plus a visual and technical inspection of all luminaires, escape route coverage, signage, and battery systems. Without a current certificate, your building's fire safety documentation is incomplete.
What About Self-Test Systems?
Modern automatic self-test emergency lighting systems can carry out monthly and duration tests automatically and log the results electronically. These systems significantly reduce the administrative burden and ensure tests are never missed. However, an annual inspection by a qualified engineer is still required to issue a certificate of compliance.
Consequences of Missing Tests
If emergency lighting has not been regularly tested and documented, you are likely in breach of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, which requires responsible persons to maintain fire precautions including emergency lighting. In the event of an incident, absence of testing records will be treated as evidence of neglect. Fines, prohibition notices, and in serious cases criminal prosecution can follow.