Emergency and exit lighting is an integral part of a building’s safety and evacuation plan. Some might think that installing emergency and exit lights is enough to keep the occupants safe. However, it is important to ensure that they are in optimal working condition at all times and especially during power outages caused by emergencies.
Australian Standard AS 2293 covers the implementation and maintenance of emergency lighting in commercial premises. This set of standards outline the design and installation of an emergency lighting system, its maintenance, and product requirements.
Under these standards, building managers and business owners have the responsibility and duty to ensure that their premises meet the minimum standard for emergency lighting compliance.
Emergency light testing regulations require that all emergency and exit signs be inspected every 6 months. An in-depth testing is required to check that your emergency lighting system is at optimum function and will perform as needed in a real emergency. It is important that a qualified personnel will test the lights for a total of 90 minutes.
This test simulates the backup batteries to test their limits for a power outage. It ensures that the batteries can hold a charge for as long as 90 minutes. It is vital that the lights are replaced or repaired as needed if the batteries or any of its parts fail as soon as possible.
Aside from the 90-minute test, other emergency and exit lighting tests include the following:
- Disconnect the AC power supply to each unit
- Clean the unit and lens if needed
- Adjust and tighten the beam for proper placement
- Measure the charging system voltage, battery output voltage, and line voltage
When all of these are completed, a record of emergency and exit lighting inspections should be kept. The maintenance record is important to prove that inspection and testing have been conducted and that the assets have passed their standards.
FCF ensures that your emergency and exit lighting system complies with the codes and standards. We are proud to be a one-stop shop for all your fire and electrical safety needs. We supply, install and service a wide range of fire protection equipment including emergency & exit lighting. Contact us today and get a free quote.
