Stay Compliant with Emergency Lighting Checks
- Ryan O'Toole
- Mar 21
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 1
When it comes to commercial and industrial buildings, emergency lighting isn’t just a box to tick — it’s a critical part of ensuring occupant safety, maintaining legal compliance, and meeting insurance conditions. Yet many businesses are unaware of the common oversights that can leave them exposed to risk, fines, or invalidated policies. In this post, we explore the most frequent emergency lighting failures, UK testing regulations, the reasons behind maintaining a compliant system, and how Mech-Elec Building Services can support you through compliance, refurbishment, or project works.
Common Oversights in Emergency Lighting Systems
Despite being a legal requirement in the UK, emergency lighting systems are often overlooked until an incident occurs. Here are some of the most common failures we encounter during emergency lighting inspections:
Incorrect positioning of luminaires Exit routes, fire equipment, and key hazards must all be properly illuminated during a power outage. Poor initial design or alterations to building layouts can cause lighting to fall short of BS 5266 standards.
Lack of functional testing Many building managers are unaware that monthly function tests are required. If batteries or lamps fail during a real emergency, the results can be catastrophic.
Battery degradation Emergency lighting relies on battery backup. Over time, these lose efficiency and must be replaced. Regular maintenance identifies and resolves these issues before failure.
Inadequate logbook records A compliant emergency lighting logbook should detail test dates, results, and any corrective actions taken. Without it, you're unlikely to satisfy inspectors or insurers.
Failure to adapt during refurbishments When layouts change due to internal refurbishments or office reconfigurations, emergency lighting must also be updated to reflect the new escape routes.
Emergency Lighting Testing Requirements in the UK
Emergency lighting must be maintained in line with BS 5266-1:2016 and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The responsibilities lie with the Responsible Person—typically the building owner, facilities manager, or employer.
Here’s a quick summary of what’s required:
Monthly Testing
Function test: A short test to simulate a power failure and confirm each emergency light illuminates.
Duration: Usually a few minutes.
Responsibility: Can be performed in-house by trained personnel.
Annual Testing
Full duration test: This involves running the emergency lighting system for its full rated duration (typically 3 hours).
Purpose: Confirms batteries can support the lighting system throughout an emergency.
Responsibility: Should be carried out by a qualified contractor.
Failure to comply can lead to fines, prosecution, or—in the event of an incident—major insurance issues.
Why You Need a Compliant Emergency Lighting System
It’s not just about ticking a box. Having a fully compliant emergency lighting system delivers real, tangible benefits:
1. Legal Compliance
UK law mandates that emergency lighting is installed and maintained properly. BS 5266 provides the framework, and enforcement falls under the Fire Safety Order 2005. Failing to comply can lead to penalties and criminal charges.
2. Insurance Requirements
Most business insurance policies include conditions regarding emergency systems. Non-compliance could void your cover if an incident occurs and the lighting system fails due to neglect.
3. Safety of Occupants
In the event of a fire or power failure, emergency lighting ensures that occupants can safely exit the premises. In high-risk industrial settings, this can be the difference between life and death.
Planning a Refurbishment or Project? Don’t Overlook Emergency Lighting
If you're planning a refurbishment or new build project, emergency lighting should be considered early in the design stage. Poor planning here can lead to non-compliance, costly rework, or even a failed handover.
At Mech-Elec Building Services, we collaborate with project teams to ensure all emergency lighting designs align with:
BS 5266-1:2016 – Code of practice for the emergency lighting of premises
BS EN 1838 – Lighting applications for emergency situations
Building Regulations Part B – Fire safety requirements
We integrate emergency lighting into the full M&E design, ensuring routes, exit signs, and battery backup meet or exceed legal and insurance thresholds.
Why Choose Mech-Elec Building Services?
With over 50 years of combined experience in building services, our team understands how vital emergency lighting is to both compliance and safety. Whether you’re looking for routine emergency lighting maintenance, compliance checks, or a new installation as part of a refurbishment project, we can help.
✅ Fully qualified engineers familiar with UK regulations✅ CHAS Advanced Accredited for safety and compliance✅ Experts in commercial and industrial lighting systems✅ End-to-end support from design through to installation and certification✅ Detailed logbooks and reporting for audits and insurers
Call to Action
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Book your emergency lighting inspection or consultation today to ensure your business stays safe, legal, and fully insured.
📞 Call us on 0115 667 0244
📧 Email: info@mech-elecbuildingservices.co.uk
We cover Nottingham, Derby, Leicester, Sheffield, and all surrounding areas throughout the midlands and nationally.
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