Emergency lighting is a critical component of any building’s safety system, ensuring that occupants can safely evacuate during an emergency. Self-test emergency lighting systems take this one step further by automating the testing process, which traditionally required manual intervention. Some lighting units can be difficult to access and most workplaces are busy and these checks can get missed over time. If emergency lighting is faulty you won’t have the protection you need to get out safely should a fire occur so making sure these checks are in place (and automating them if possible) is essential.
When units are installed you have the option to specify self-testing units which carry out all required tests automatically and then report any faults through a sequence of LED flashes. The information below shows a typical matrix for interpreting the LEDs on each unit to show if a test has been completed successfully (note that the number of flashes will vary between units as there is no defined standard):
What Is Self-Test Emergency Lighting?
Self test emergency lighting is designed to automatically conduct regular testing of the emergency lighting system. These tests typically include:
- Monthly Function Test: Briefly operates the emergency light to ensure it functions correctly.
- Annual Full Duration Test: Runs the emergency light for the full rated duration (often 3 hours) to ensure it can sustain illumination for the required time.
By automating these tests, self-test emergency lighting systems reduce the need for manual testing and ensure that any issues are quickly identified and addressed.
Benefits of Self-Test Emergency Lighting
- Increased Safety: Automated testing ensures that emergency lighting is always in working order, improving the safety of building occupants.
- Cost-Effective: Reduces the need for manual testing, saving on labour costs.
- Compliance: Helps ensure compliance with safety regulations by maintaining a consistent testing schedule.
- Real-Time Alerts: Many systems provide real time alerts if any faults are detected, allowing for prompt maintenance.
How It Works
Self-test emergency lighting systems usually include a control module within each light fitting. This module manages the testing schedule and records the results. In the event of a failure, the system can alert building management through indicators on the light fitting or via a centralized monitoring system.
