Most businesses run the mandated emergency lighting tests: monthly functionality checks and annual duration tests. These ensure fixtures turn on and batteries last the rated time. But compliance isn’t just about operation, it’s about intensity where it counts.
What “adequate intensity” means: UK fire safety law (Fire Safety Order 2005) requires emergency lighting of adequate intensity on escape routes and exits. In practice, design standards translate this to measurable lux at floor level (e.g. ≥1 lux on route centre lines, ≥0.5 lux in open areas).
Where the test falls short: The annual 3-hour test proves battery duration; it does NOT measure floor-level lux. Escape routes might be dark in places even if lights run. HSE guidance (Workplace Regs) expects lighting to allow safe movement in an emergency. If an audit or accident occurs, “we tested for 3 hours” might not satisfy inspectors or insurers.
Duty and danger: The “Responsible Person” is legally liable for compliance. Enforcement penalties are severe (unlimited fines or jail). Industry commentary even warns insurers may refuse claims if safety rules are breached. Ignorance isn’t bliss here.
The solution – Emergency Lighting Performance Survey: We call it an Emergency Lighting Performance Survey because it answers the critical question: “Does the emergency lighting provide adequate light where people will walk?” A survey includes: full digital mapping of luminaires, calibrated lux readings at floor height, and a report showing compliance gaps and fixes.
Book this if you want documented proof of compliance, actionable data for any upgrades, and peace of mind. It’s one survey day (followed by a report) for the life of the building’s lighting.
Book your Emergency Lighting Performance Survey:
