Commercial Properties in Sheffield: Do I Need to Have My Emergency Lighting Tested by an Electrician?
The short answer is, yes, you need to have your emergency lighting tested by an electrician to ensure it is functioning correctly. Not only is this paramount for safety purposes and the protection of your employees and other people who occupy the building, it is also a legal requirement. If you do not have your emergency lighting systems tested, at least on a yearly basis, you will leave yourself liable for breaching the law.
How Do Emergency Lights Work?
In most commercial properties across the UK, emergency lighting is wired on the same circuit as the main lighting. However, it’s important that in the event of a power outage when your main lights go off, your emergency lights must remain on, for obvious reasons. Essentially, the electrical supply provides a constant charge to the emergency light’s battery. This means that if the power fails, the emergency lights still work and allow any occupants to see clearly when evacuating a commercial property. These lights must stay on for a minimum of 90 minutes in order to meet the appropriate safety standard
That’s why it is important to have your emergency lighting tested on a yearly basis, to ensure it is working as it should and not posing a threat to your commercial building and those inside it. There are lots of regulations when it comes to your emergency lighting, and usually LED bulbs are your best option, in terms of brightness.
Can Smart Electricians Carry Out My Emergency Lighting Tests?
As a reputable commercial electrical contractor in Sheffield and the surrounding areas, Smart Electricians are proud to offer you a range of electrical services, including full rated duration test, which tests the ratings of your fittings. In smaller commercial properties, the test can usually be carried out in one go. However, in bigger buildings, it’s often wise to stagger the testing so that the whole building isn’t affected in the event of a power cut during recharge time.
Since emergency lighting tests must be carried out on an annual basis, you may want to consider establishing a maintenance contract with us so that we can monitor and repair any electrical issues. This will give you the peace of mind you need to run a business without fear for your own or your staff’s safety. Feel free to find out more about us by browsing our website, or give us a call on 0330 043 2031 if you have any questions about our emergency light testing.
