A key-switch. This is installed on the permanent live supply to an emergency fitting. When actuated it isolates the emergency fitting, thus simulating a power failure. L SW is the normal mains supply. A normal light switch, or sensor, would usually be on this circuit to enable the end-user to have control over the light fitting in normal operating mode. L SW is always to be wired so that any switching of L PERM will disconnect L SW too, but any switching of L SW will not affect L PERM.

The frequency in which you should get your emergency lighting tested can vary depending on system type (i.e. maintained emergency lighting or non-maintained), but as a general guide, you should aim to get your emergency lighting system tested monthly, in addition to an annual ‘full duration’ test as described in BS 5266-1. Carry out a full discharge test of the emergency lights to ensure that they remain illuminated for the required duration (usually 1-3 hours). Self-test has several benefits. First, it saves the labour of manual testing. Secondly, it removes the risk that routine monthly or annual testing is overlooked.It is worth noting that the duration of emergency lighting may vary depending on the specific application. For example, in areas where there is a higher risk to the safety of occupants, such as escape routes, the emergency lighting may need to remain illuminated for a longer period of time. This should be determined through a risk assessment and in accordance with the relevant regulations and standards. Areas in which there is moving machinery or vehicles, flammable materials or control rooms associated with potentially dangerous processes have, as ‘high risk task areas’, slightly different requirements in relation to emergency lighting – particularly in relation to the illuminance levels to be maintained and duration of operation. High risk task area lighting is provided predominantly to ensure that processes can be safely terminated, and occupants make their evacuation from the area without undue risk from the process.

All emergency lights have an LED charging light on them. This light is to show there is suitable power supply going to the light and it is charging. Under normal circumstances, this light will be lit to show that the light is charging. If you notice that this light is not on you know there is a problem. There could be a problem with battery or the emergency light itself. You should report this straight away. Testing your Emergency Lighting The name of the person or organization responsible for the maintenance and testing of the emergency lighting system.

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Emergency lighting is required in premises to enable occupants to escape safely in an emergency situation. BS 5266-1 states that a building must have adequate illumination to support escape and identify firefighting equipment (or any other fire safety equipment). There are many different types of emergency lights and different types of emergency lighting test facilities however most of these different pieces of equipment are generally tested and inspected in a similar way. Emergency lighting should be tested monthly in between servicing visits. Here is an example of what an emergency light looks like. Failure of the normal lighting does not necessarily mean that the hazard no longer exists. A hazard may continue long after failure of the normal lighting supply. In such circumstances, high risk task lighting will be required and designed in such a way to ensure illumination is maintained as long as the local hazard continues to exist.

This performs the same function as a key-switch, isolating the fitting from its permanent live supply and thereby simulating a power failure. L PERM is the permanent live supply and must have no normal (manually operated) switch or sensor on it. However, a key-switch is permissible and will usually be installed on this circuit. L PERM has two functions: It supplies the power that keeps the emergency batteries charged. That’s why it must not be affected by any switching of L SW.

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When zero voltage is detected at L PERM it is the indication to the emergency module in the light fitting that mains power has been lost and that battery power must now be switched on. UK fire safety legislation states that emergency lighting is required in buildings to provide light if normal lighting fails during a fire.