Here are our frequently asked questions regarding emergency lighting servicing. If you can’t find an answer to your question here, get in touch with us using the contact information at the bottom of the page.
Contents
- Why do I need my emergency lights servicing?
- What is BS 5266?
- What are the benefits of an emergency lighting service for me and my business?
- What kinds of organisations or businesses need emergency light servicing?
- Why do I need a visit every year?
- What does the engineer do during their visit?
- Will the engineer’s visit disrupt my business?
- Do I get any documentation at the end of an emergency lighting service?
- Do I need my emergency lights serviced every year?
- How long will emergency lights last?
Why do I need my emergency lights servicing?
You are legally required to risk assess your building and fit emergency lighting in accordance with BS 5266. This is a standard for planning laws and is also a requirement under the 17th edition IEE electrical wiring regulations.
What is BS 5266?
The British Standard 5266 is a code of practice for the maintenance, testing and annual inspection of emergency lighting systems.
What are the benefits of an emergency lighting service for me and my business?
You will have full peace of mind that your fire safety and evacuation equipment is in full working order as well as compliant with insurance requirements and planning laws.
What kinds of organisations or businesses need emergency light servicing?
Wherever there are emergency lights fitted as part of planning laws to protect employees and the public, you will require emergency light servicing on an annual basis.
Why do I need a visit every year?
The visit ensures that the internal battery is fully operational as well as the system overall. This is in compliance with BS 5266 and the 17th edition IEE wiring regulations.
What does the engineer do during their visit?
The engineer will check that every single light is functioning and has a minimum 3 hour capacity.
Will the engineer’s visit disrupt my business?
This will depend on the type of emergency lighting setup you have. If your lights are part of the main lighting system then they will need to be turned off while the engineer carries out checks. However, our engineers are flexible and will always keep disruption to a minimum.
Do I get any documentation at the end of an emergency lighting service?
Yes. You will receive a certificate detailing our visit and any works or recommendations offered by the engineer. This is proof that the system complies with BS 5266, should you need it.
Do I need my emergency lights serviced every year?
Yes. You are obliged to under BS 5266.
How long will emergency lights last?
It depends on ambient temperature and location. However, the batteries that power the lights typically last up to 4/5 years before replacements are required.
If you have a question that has not been answered here, do not hesitate to get in touch with a member of the Fire Action team. With over 15 years as South East England’s leading independent fire safety and security providers, we are happy to help you understand any of our invaluable services. Call us on 0203 873 6622 or use our handy contact form.
