Emergency Lighting Testing & Certification



Emergency Lighting Testing And Certification

Lighting the Path to Safety: Expert Emergency Lighting Testing Solutions Across South East UK

Experts in Emergency Lighting Testing and Certification

Ensure Safety and Compliance with Expert Emergency Lighting Testing Services in the UK!

At MIT Commercial, we understand the critical importance of reliable emergency lighting systems in safeguarding lives and property during unforeseen emergencies.

That’s why we offer comprehensive emergency lighting testing services tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses and organisations across the UK.

Our team of skilled professionals is equipped with the latest tools and expertise to conduct thorough testing of your emergency lighting systems, ensuring they meet regulatory standards and operate at peak performance when it matters most.


With meticulous attention to detail, we assess every aspect of your emergency lighting infrastructure, from functionality and illuminance levels to battery backup systems and signage.

By partnering with us for your emergency lighting testing needs, you can:

– Ensure Compliance: Stay ahead of regulatory requirements and demonstrate compliance with industry standards, including BS EN 50172:2004 and BS 5266-1:2016.

– Enhance Safety: Minimise risks and maximise safety for occupants and staff members by ensuring that emergency lighting systems are fully operational and effective during evacuations.

– Reduce Liabilities: Mitigate potential liabilities and insurance risks associated with inadequate emergency lighting maintenance by entrusting your testing needs to certified experts.

– Gain Peace of Mind: Rest easy knowing that your emergency lighting systems are in capable hands, allowing you to focus on your core business operations with confidence.

Don’t leave safety to chance contact MIT Commercial today to schedule your emergency lighting testing service and take the first step toward a safer, more secure environment for everyone. Let us be your trusted partner in safeguarding what matters most.”

Technician conducting lux testing on emergency lighting system.
Screenshot showing a battery discharge test for emergency lighting compliance.

Comprehensive Testing & Assessment Service

MIT Commercial offer a comprehensive testing and assessment service to include the following:

– Battery discharge test
– Lumen level output assessment
– Survey to assess adequate coverage
-Compatibility with BS requirements
– Client training to carry out interim testing

Technician Maintaining Illuminated Emergency Exit Sign

3 Hour Duration Test


In the UK, regulations regarding emergency lighting duration testing typically adhere to standards set forth by the British Standards Institution (BSI). Specifically, BS EN 50172:2004 and BS 5266-1:2016 are key documents that provide guidelines for emergency lighting systems, including testing requirements.

According to these standards, emergency lighting systems must undergo regular testing to ensure they are fully operational in the event of an emergency.


For maintained emergency lighting systems (those that remain illuminated at all times), a full three-hour duration test is required at least annually. This involves simulating a power failure and ensuring that the emergency lights remain functional for the entire duration specified.

Non-maintained emergency lighting systems (those that only activate during a power failure) must also undergo a full duration test annually, but this can be conducted during a period of maximum occupancy when the premises are vacated for a specified period.


It’s important for building owners, facility managers, and responsible persons to familiarise themselves with these regulations and ensure compliance to maintain safety standards and meet legal requirements. Additionally, local fire safety authorities may provide additional guidance or requirements specific to certain jurisdictions.

Lux Testing

Lux levels for emergency escape route lighting are regulated to ensure adequate illumination during evacuations in the event of an emergency.

Lux levels refer to the measurement of illuminance, or the amount of light falling onto a surface.

According to British Standards, such as BS 5266-1:2016, emergency escape route lighting should meet specific lux level requirements to provide sufficient visibility for safe evacuation.


These requirements vary depending on factors such as the type of escape route and the presence of obstacles.
Generally, the following lux levels are recommended for emergency escape route lighting:


Escape Routes: For escape routes such as corridors, stairways, and exits, a minimum average illuminance of 1 lux is typically required. This ensures that occupants can navigate these paths safely during an evacuation.

Open Areas:
In larger open areas, such as assembly points or open plan offices, a minimum average illuminance of 0.5 lux may be sufficient. However, this can vary based on factors such as the size and layout of the space.

High-Risk Areas: Areas with specific hazards or obstacles may
require higher lux levels to ensure adequate visibility. For example, areas with machinery or trip hazards might need increased illumination to ensure safe passage.

It’s essential for building owners, facility managers, and responsible persons to adhere to these lux level requirements when
designing, installing, and maintaining emergency escape route lighting systems.

Regular testing and maintenance are also crucial to ensure that the lighting remains effective and compliant with regulations.

Compliance with these standards helps to enhance overall safety and minimise risks during emergency situations.

Emergency Lighting Certification

The certification specifically for emergency lighting systems is often referred to as “Emergency Lighting Certificate” or “Emergency Lighting Compliance Certificate.”

This certificate confirms that the emergency lighting system within a building has been installed, tested, and maintained in accordance with relevant standards and regulations, such as BS EN 1838:2013, BS EN 50172:2004, and BS 5266-1:2016.

The certificate is typically issued by qualified professionals, such as electricians or fire safety engineers, after completing the installation and testing of the emergency lighting system. It serves as evidence that the system meets the necessary safety requirements and is compliant with legal standards.


Having an up-to-date Emergency Lighting Certificate is essential for building owners, facility managers, and responsible persons to demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements and ensure the safety of occupants in the event of an emergency.

Insurance Requirements

Insurance requirements for emergency lighting in the UK typically mandate that buildings maintain adequate emergency lighting systems to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of occupants during emergencies.

These requirements are often stipulated by insurance companies as part of their risk assessment process.

In order to comply with insurance requirements, building owners and managers must ensure that their emergency lighting systems are installed, tested, and maintained according to relevant standards and regulations, such as BS EN 1838:2013, BS EN 50172:2004, and BS 5266-1:2016.

This includes ensuring proper illumination levels, sufficient coverage of escape routes, and regular testing and maintenance of the system.

Insurance providers may request documentation or evidence of compliance with these standards, such as Emergency Lighting Certificates, to verify that the emergency lighting system meets industry best practices and legal requirements.


Failure to adhere to these requirements may result in increased insurance premiums or even denial of coverage in some cases.

By meeting insurance requirements for emergency lighting, building owners not
only ensure compliance with legal standards but also demonstrate a commitment to the safety and well-being of occupants.

A well-maintained and properly functioning emergency lighting system can significantly reduce the risk of injury or loss of life during emergencies, ultimately contributing to a safer built environment and potentially reducing insurance liabilities.

Contact us today & see how MIT Commercial can keep your business illuminated

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