About this service
Emergency-lighting testing confirms that fittings operate when normal lighting fails and that batteries can sustain the required duration. Routine short functional tests and periodic full-duration tests serve different purposes.
Testing should be planned so batteries have time to recharge and the building is not left without emergency cover during occupancy. Results and failures need recording against identifiable fittings.
Common problems we help with
Fitting does not illuminate on failure
Lamp, driver, battery, local supply or internal control faults may be responsible.
Battery fails before the required duration
Capacity falls with age, heat and cycling even when the charge indicator appears normal.
Test keys or controls are unlabelled
Staff cannot reliably test the correct circuit or restore normal operation.
No fitting schedule exists
Missing identifiers make repeated defects and replacements hard to track.
How we carry out the work
Confirm the schedule and safe timing
We identify every fitting, test control and operational constraint.
Run the agreed test
Normal supplies are simulated safely and luminaires are observed for function or full duration.
Record failures and restore
Results, repair needs and restoration of normal charging are checked and documented.
What is normally included?
- Initial discussion about the property, symptoms, priorities and timescale
- Assessment of the relevant circuit, equipment, access and existing protection
- A written scope for the proposed emergency lighting testing work
- The agreed installation or repair work, with disruption kept to a reasonable minimum
- Inspection, electrical testing and appropriate handover documentation
Before the work starts
- The purpose of the inspection and the person who will rely on the report
- The number, accessibility and labelling of circuits
- Previous certificates, alterations and known defects
- Whether operational areas need phased testing or out-of-hours access
What affects the price?
The price depends on the existing installation and the amount of work required. For emergency lighting testing, the main factors normally include:
- Circuit count and distribution-board quantity
- Access to accessories, plant and tenanted rooms
- Quality of existing circuit schedules and records
- Extent of follow-up investigation or separately authorised remedial work
Testing, certificates and handover
Once the installation work is complete, we inspect and test it and provide the records that apply to the job.
- An identified inspection or test record
- Recorded results and observations for the agreed inspection
- An explanation of priorities and recommended actions
- A separate quotation where remedial work is requested
Emergency Lighting Testing questions
Can the monthly test be done by staff?
Often yes, with suitable instruction and a clear log. Periodic service and duration testing still require competent management.
Why did a fitting pass monthly tests but fail the annual test?
A brief function test does not prove that the battery retains enough capacity for the full duration.
Do failed batteries need immediate replacement?
A failed fitting reduces the designed emergency coverage and should be dealt with promptly in line with the fire-risk arrangements.
Booking the work
What happens after you contact us
1. Discuss the job
Tell us about the property, the symptoms or the result you want. Photographs and model numbers are often helpful.
2. Inspect and quote
We check the relevant installation and give you a written quotation showing what is included.
3. Complete and test
We carry out the agreed work, verify it electrically and explain any controls, labels or certificates at handover.