CareHomeDeskCareHomeDeskMonthly, annual and three-yearly tests -- what each involves and what records you need to keep.
Emergency lighting maintains illumination of escape routes, exit signs and high-risk task areas when the normal supply fails. In a care home, it is essential because staff must be able to safely move residents in darkness or smoke conditions. The system is governed by BS 5266-1 and must be maintained under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
A qualified person must simulate a mains failure for a short duration (typically 15-30 minutes) to confirm each luminaire activates. Record the date, who carried out the test, any luminaires that failed, and remedial action taken. This should be a standing diary entry for the first working Monday of each month.
Once a year, the system is discharged for its full rated duration (typically 3 hours). Every luminaire must maintain rated illumination throughout. The test should be carried out by a competent electrician or specialist contractor. Results must be recorded in the fire safety logbook.
Every three years, an inspection of the emergency lighting installation is required, checking cabling, control gear, battery condition and distribution board connections. This is typically carried out alongside the electrical installation condition report.
CareHomeDesk gives you compliance checklists, maintenance logs, and contractor management tools built around exactly this kind of knowledge.