Exit Emergency Light Testing Explained

1. Why Is Exit and Emergency Light Testing Required?

Exit emergency lights are required by NFPA 101, the Life Safety Code, to provide illumination during evacuations. In a power outage, fire, or emergency, these lights guide occupants safely out of the building. Testing is required because a light that does not work during an emergency is useless. Regular testing ensures batteries, bulbs, and wiring are fully functional when lives depend on them.

2. How Often Should Exit Signs and Emergency Lights Be Tested?

NFPA 101 requires both monthly and annual testing. Monthly testing is a quick functional check that ensures the light illuminates properly and the battery backup works. Annual testing is a longer 90-minute test where the light must remain illuminated on battery power for the full duration. This confirms the system can provide light for the entire time it may take to evacuate a building. Skipping these tests risks code violations, failed inspections, and unsafe conditions during real emergencies.

3. How Do You Test Exit Signs and Emergency Lights?

Most exit and emergency lights include a built-in “test” button. Pressing this button simulates a power outage and confirms the battery and lamps are operational. For monthly tests, the button should be pressed for at least 30 seconds to verify proper function. For the annual test, the building’s power to the light should be turned off, allowing the unit to run only on backup battery power for 90 minutes. If the light remains illuminated for the full period, it passes. If it dims, flickers, or shuts off, the battery or bulbs must be replaced.

4. What Happens If Exit Lights Fail a Test?

If an exit or emergency light fails a test, it must be repaired or replaced immediately. Common failures include weak or dead batteries, burned-out bulbs, or faulty wiring. A failed light not only puts occupants at risk but also puts the property owner at risk of fines or a failed fire marshal inspection. Keeping spare batteries and lamps available can help facilities address problems quickly.

5. How Do You Know When Exit Lights Need Replacing?

Like all life safety equipment, exit lights have a limited lifespan. Signs that a unit may need replacement include dim illumination, constant flickering, cracked or yellowed housing, batteries that cannot hold a charge, or repeated test failures. Many facilities upgrade to LED exit signs, which last longer and require less maintenance. Planning replacements proactively reduces downtime and keeps facilities compliant.

6. How Do Exit Lights Work With Other Life Safety Systems?

Exit and emergency lights are not stand-alone devices. They are part of a complete life safety strategy that also includes fire alarms, sprinklers, extinguishers, and suppression systems. Alarms alert occupants to danger through sound and strobes. Sprinklers control flames to buy time. Exit lights and emergency lighting guide people to safety. Together, these systems work to protect all occupants, including those who are blind who rely on audible alarms and staff guidance, and those who are deaf who rely on strobes and visible exit signs.

7. Who Performs Exit Light Testing?

Testing can be done by trained facility staff using the test button and battery checks, but annual inspections are often handled by certified fire protection technicians. A professional service provider not only performs the tests but also documents compliance, replaces faulty parts, and ensures the building is ready for inspection.

Trust Integrity Fire Safety Services for Exit and Emergency Light Testing

At Integrity Fire Safety Services, we provide complete exit and emergency light services, including monthly and annual testing, battery and lamp replacement, and new installations. Our technicians make sure your building remains compliant with NFPA requirements and local codes, while keeping occupants safe during emergencies.