Emergency and exit lighting are crucial in the evacuation procedure of a building. Oftentimes, power outages occur during emergency situations such as fire.
Lights go out when you need them most. Thankfully, emergency and exit lights come to the rescue. They automatically illuminate the escape route and fire protection equipment when the main light source shuts off in the event of an emergency. They help the building occupants escape the building as safely as possible. Thus, emergency and exit light fittings are maintained regularly.
Because it is an important part of a comprehensive fire protection system, a set of standards is followed to ensure that the goods and services are safe and reliable. AS 2293 covers the implementation and maintenance of emergency lighting in commercial spaces. It outlines the standard design and installation of the emergency lighting system, as well as the maintenance and product requirements.
Emergency exit lighting inspection ensures that they are in working condition when it will be needed.
Emergency luminaires and exit signs need to be inspected at 6-monthly intervals and must undergo a 90-minute discharge test as stated under the AS2293.2 standard.
During a test, there are times that the backup battery fails due to batteries becoming discharged. This occurs when the battery no longer holds a charge or does not receive a charge from the power converter. It is important to know that in any light failure, replacing the backup battery may not be enough to resolve the fault.
There are instances that lights may function again due to any charge/backup power in the newly installed battery, but it may fail to recharge due to a faulty power converter. Thus, it is most economical to replace the complete unit instead.
Tubes or bulbs in emergency and exit light fittings may also be replaced during inspection if the unit does not illuminate. Any damage to the unit or diffuser is considered an immediate failure, and so the unit must be replaced or repaired.
Inspection, servicing, and maintenance must be conducted by a trained individual to ensure that they meet the minimum standard and avoid the risk of electrocution. It is important to keep a record of all tests and subsequent actions taken for compliance purposes.
Hiring a professional maintenance contractor ensures that your assets stay compliant at all times by providing a routine maintenance program and service reminders. FCF Fire & Electrical can assist you in keeping your assets compliant. Contact us today and get a free quote.
