Do emergency lights need a test switch?
Emergency lighting key switches are available and allow for the interruption of the power to the emergency lights without affecting the power supply to the normal lighting circuits. A test for the full duration (usually three hours) of the emergency lights must be carried out once a year.
How does an emergency light test switch work?
Under test the contactor energises and disconnects mains power to the light fitting simulating power outage. The lights then need to be observed for the required time to ensure battery and lights are operating as required. The test finishes when the timer times out or the stop button is pressed.
Does emergency lighting need a key switch?
Each isolator switch, protective device, key and operating device should be marked “EMERGENCY LIGHTING”, “EMERGENCY ESCAPE LIGHTING” or “STANDBY LIGHTING” as appropriate and the marking should indicate its use.
How do you use the emergency lighting test key?
Put the test key into the key switch and just like a light switch click it into test mode. This will simulate the power being cut to the emergency light. You should check that all the emergency lights in that area have come on. If they have come on and are working correctly then switch the key back into normal mode.
How do you do a 90 minute emergency light test?
In brief, the 90-minute battery load test is when you bring in an outside party to test your emergency and exit lights for a duration of 90 minutes. They will shut off the power to the lights to mimic power loss in an emergency situation and require the lights to switch to battery-power.
How do you troubleshoot emergency lights?
How to Troubleshoot an Emergency Exit Sign
- Check the power source if the light is out.
- If the light is blinking on and off, check the bulbs in the light and tighten them as needed.
- Replace the face of the sign if the plastic front is cracked.
Can emergency lights be switched?
An emergency light unit that can be wired to a switch, allowing it to be turned on or off for regular use (switching the unit between maintained and non-maintained operation). In the event of a mains power / circuit failure the lamp on the unit will be powered by its back-up battery.
Who can test emergency lighting UK?
This test can be carried out by you or a member of your team, as long as they follow the correct procedures. How to test emergency lighting on one circuit, or a number of large circuits: Simulate a mains failure (usually with an emergency lighting test-key supplied by your fire safety provider)
Can I test emergency lighting?
It is really important that emergency lights are given a full rated duration test every year. That means if the emergency lights back up should provide 3 hours of illumination (which is often the case), they need to be tested for the full 3 hours to ensure they’re still working at the end of the test.
How do you inspect an emergency exit light?
How do I test them? Most emergency lights or exit signs have a small “push to test” button somewhere on the casing. You can push and hold this button for thirty seconds to test the bulbs and battery. This works ok if you have a small number of devices that can be easily reached.
Why do emergency lights fail?
Emergency lighting is lighting for an emergency situation when the main power supply is cut and normal electrical illumination fails. The loss of mains electricity could be the result of a fire or a power cut.