The short answer
Emergency lighting needs a short functional test every month and a full rated-duration test once a year, usually three hours, with results recorded. BS EN 50172:2024 also calls for illuminance to be measured at five-year intervals.
The monthly test
A trained person briefly simulates a supply failure, usually with a test key switch, checks every emergency fitting and exit sign lights, then restores the supply and records the result. Many businesses do this in-house.
The annual test
Once a year the system runs on battery for its full rated duration. Every fitting must still be lit at the end. Because batteries need time to recharge afterwards, the test is best done at the end of the day.
Typical budgets for an annual test on a small system are £125–£400 per visit, excluding VAT.
Records
- Keep a log book with dates, results and faults.
- Record repairs and re-tests.
- Keep design and installation certificates with the log.
- Make records available for your fire risk assessment and any inspection.
Self-test and addressable systems
Self-test fittings run their own checks and show a status indicator, which reduces manual work, but someone still needs to check the indicators and keep records. Addressable systems report every fitting's status to a central panel, which suits larger sites.
Questions
What happens if a fitting fails the annual test?
It needs repair, usually a new battery or fitting, followed by a re-test. We give a fixed price for repairs at the time of the test.
Related services
Emergency lighting testing
Monthly function tests, annual duration tests and certificates.
Emergency lighting installation
Escape route lighting and exit signs designed to BS 5266-1.
Lighting maintenance contracts
Planned maintenance, emergency lighting tests and reactive repairs.
Lighting surveys and lux testing
Lux readings, condition surveys and energy audits for existing lighting.
Last reviewed 9 November 2026. This guide is general information, not legal, tax or engineering advice for a specific site.