Emergency lighting is lighting that automatically turns on to assist building occupants with an emergency exit.
Does my place of business need emergency lighting?
Every commercial space—including home spaces utilised for business—needs emergency lighting. According to Australia’s Building Code (BCA), it is necessary. You must also have the designated exit illumination in place.
What distinguishes emergency lighting from exit lighting?
If the power goes out, emergency lighting turns on (or stays on) and should remain lit for 90 minutes using batteries. No matter where a person is inside the building, they can find their way to an exit in the case of a power outage thanks to the regular placement of this illumination.
Many emergency lights in commercial buildings only turn on in an emergency, but there are certain emergency lights (often batten lights) that are always on and switch to battery power in the event of a power outage, like those seen in parking lots and fire stairs.
How can I tell if my emergency lighting is operational?
Your emergency and exit lighting must be examined before you can determine if it is operational. Although your emergency lights may be on when the power is on, there is no assurance that it will function in the event of a power outage. Every six months, you should test your emergency and exit lighting to make sure the batteries are functional and will last for 90 minutes in an emergency.
How should my emergency and exit lighting be tested?
You are unable to test the emergency and exit lighting on your own. According to the safety standard AS2293, testing of your emergency lighting must be done every six months by a competent individual. The battery in the device will be examined by your testing professional to make sure it is completely charged and that the connections are secure. These tests make sure that your lighting will function for 90 minutes without electricity to enable a secure building exit.
Call Surge Tag and Test at 1300 178 743 if you’re unsure about the electrical safety standards that apply to your business and our team can guide you on what your obligations are. Don’t presume that your business is exempt from these national regulations; otherwise, you risk incurring significant costs. Make sure you are covered by asking questions and getting your affairs in order; it only takes a phone call.