The law and the standards
The Fire Safety Order requires escape routes that need lighting to have emergency lighting that works if the mains fails. BS 5266-1 is the code of practice. The 2025 edition came into effect on 31 October 2025, alongside BS EN 50172:2024.
The monthly flick test
Once a month, simulate a mains failure using the test key switch (not the main power switch) and check every emergency light and lit exit sign comes on. Then restore the power and check the charging lights are back on. You or trained staff can do this.
The annual full-duration test
Once a year, each light must run on battery for its full rated time, usually 3 hours. This should be done by a competent person, who gives you a certificate. Batteries can take up to 24 hours to recharge afterwards, so plan it for a quiet time.
Records
Keep a record of every monthly and annual test in the logbook, with the date, results, faults and what was done about them. Fire officers will ask to see it.
What changed in 2025
The 2025 edition covers standby and local area lighting as well as escape lighting, asks for light levels to be checked at intervals of no more than 5 years, and sets clearer minimum light levels, including at least 1 lux across escape route floors and 5 lux at extinguishers, call points and first aid points.