Emergency lighting systems are critical to providing backup lighting during power outages, fires, and other emergencies. And for systems that rely on batteries, battery backups are crucial to safety. 

Testing of emergency lighting systems depends on the building’s usage, occupancy, and type of system. For commercial buildings, monthly testing of emergency lights and exit signs, and annual testing of batteries for backup power, is recommended. Residential buildings often have less complex systems and can be tested every six months. Regular testing of emergency lighting and battery backups helps ensure:

• Reliable backup power: During a power outage or other emergencies, battery backups provide your emergency lighting systems with a power source. Backups can supply power for several hours, ensuring safe evacuation of building occupants.
• Optimal safety: Battery backups mean people in affected buildings are not left in the dark, and that exit signs and other emergency lighting remain illuminated. Read about how you can improve safety in your buildings with ABB’s Emergi-Lite emergency lighting and exit signs.
• Compliance with regulations: Similar to keeping fire and CO2 alarms in good working order, ensuring you have functional emergency lighting systems can help avoid fines and potential legal action.
• Loss prevention: Avoid expensive repairs to emergency lighting system components damaged during power outages. A power outage can drain back-up batteries, or cause battery chargers to malfunction by overcharging. An outage can also cause electrical surges when the power is restored, leading to power spikes and damage to your system. Testing batteries, chargers, and electrical components can help you identify issues before they become problems.