Emergency Lighting Testing and Replacement in Truro

Emergency lighting serves a critical function in commercial premises, providing illumination when mains power fails and guiding occupants safely to exits during emergencies. Regular testing verifies that these systems will perform when needed most, which is why we were contacted to carry out an emergency lighting test at a business location in Truro.

The work began with a comprehensive assessment of the existing emergency lighting installation. A full discharge test was scheduled to evaluate battery performance across all fittings throughout the premises. This type of test simulates a real power failure by disconnecting the mains supply and monitoring how long each emergency light can sustain adequate illumination. During the discharge phase, we measured the runtime of each unit while checking for proper brightness levels.

Emergency lighting regulations require that non-maintained fittings – those that only illuminate during power cuts – must provide at least three hours of continuous light. Maintained fittings, which operate constantly as normal lighting and switch to battery power when mains supply is lost, must also meet this minimum duration requirement. The discharge test revealed that eight fittings had reached the natural end of their battery lifecycle, a completely normal occurrence in any emergency lighting system that’s been in service for several years.

Battery degradation is an expected part of emergency lighting operation. Rechargeable cells have a finite service life, typically ranging from three to five years depending on usage patterns and environmental conditions. This is why regular testing programmes exist – to identify units that need refreshing as part of planned maintenance rather than discovering issues during an actual emergency.

Following the assessment, we replaced eight emergency light fittings across the premises. Six bulkhead-style fittings were installed in corridors and common areas where robust, tamper-resistant units are needed. These bulkheads provide diffused lighting suitable for guiding people along escape routes. Two round bulkhead fittings were positioned in specific locations where their compact design and mounting options made them the appropriate choice.

All replacement fittings featured modern LED technology, which offers significant advantages over older fluorescent emergency lights. LED units consume less power during charging, reducing energy costs while maintaining battery readiness. The light output is immediate at full brightness when mains power is lost, unlike some older technologies that require warm-up time. LED lamps also have considerably longer service lives, meaning fewer maintenance interventions and lower long-term costs.

After installation, each new fitting was tested to verify proper operation in both mains and emergency modes. The charging circuits were checked to confirm that batteries were receiving appropriate voltage and current. We simulated power failure at each location to observe illumination levels and duration, documenting the results as part of the certification process.

The certification provided following this emergency lighting test gives the business documented evidence of compliance with current regulations. This documentation is particularly valuable during inspections by building control, fire safety officers, or insurance assessors. It demonstrates a proactive approach to maintaining life safety systems and provides a baseline for future testing intervals.

Testing frequency depends on the type of premises and its occupancy patterns. Most commercial buildings require monthly brief tests to verify that emergency lights activate correctly, with annual full-discharge tests to assess battery condition comprehensively. Keeping accurate records of all tests and any remedial work performed is part of the responsible person’s obligations under fire safety legislation.

Beyond regulatory compliance, properly functioning emergency lighting protects the wellbeing of everyone who uses the building – employees, customers, visitors, and contractors. During power cuts, fires, or other emergencies requiring evacuation, these systems provide the visibility needed to exit safely without panic or confusion. Well-lit escape routes reduce the risk of trips, falls, and crushes that can occur when people move through unfamiliar spaces in darkness.

The Truro premises now has a refreshed emergency lighting system with new batteries capable of providing the required duration of illumination. The proactive testing and replacement work means the business maintains full compliance with current standards and that occupants would have adequate lighting to evacuate safely should an emergency arise.