Help with periodic inspection on emergency lighting.

[High Tower]

I need help!,

Im not the most experienced when it comes to emergency lighting, i have only ever installed pre designed basic systems, On Monday im going to quote on a job doing the periodic emergency lighting inspection on a big-ish public entertainments venue, can anyone give me any pointers as to how they attack/ go about this and any tips.

Thanks guys!

 

[T&Earth]

Hi High Tower

I would google emergency lighting requirments, try and get hold of relavet BS guide. I've looked can't find my copy.

Good Luck
T&E

 

[High Tower]

I'm not too bad with the requirements and I can manage with installs it's the periodic inspections I'm not sure about.

 

[T&Earth]

Hi High tower

Tried to add attachement but dont know how to do it PM me and I'll send it to you, but not sure if it will help. I used to have a load of stuff on this is case I ever got involved with this type of work, but never did
T&E

 

[High Tower]

Thanks mate pm sent

 

[BigBreakfast]

I should read posts more clearly in future, dohhh.

 

[Paul.M]

Here you go hightower:- Emergency Lighting Inspection and Testing RegulationsAccording to British Standard BS5266, it is recommended that Emergency Lighting inspection and testing frequencies are as follows:Monthly: A maximum of 1/4 of the time for the batteries. Six MonthlyAnnual: One hour for a three hour system.Annually: Test for 3 hours continued discharge.*During each test, the emergency lights should be checked for correct operation. After testing, the electricity supply should be restored and then checked to ensure the emergency lighting system is charging correctly. All testing and results should be documented in log books on site.Also check for any dark spots on exit routes and stairs. If the lamps don't operate, test the charge on the battery/s and replace as and when needed. In some commercial areas the lamps may have dust build up on them so give them a wipe with some glass cleaner. Whilst the EM units are receiving charge, check that the led is lit. What I do is write down a basic diagram of the premises starting at the main door or the dis board and number each unit clockwise. How many units per switch and location of the switch. Switch off and every 20-30 minutes have a walk around and write down on your diagram how long the battery lasted if they don't last the 3 hours, the battery needs replacing. Hope that helps HT.

 

[topquark]

A quick brain dump: Guessing you may need to factor in hire of a lift of some sort (and possibly training?) depending on the venue's ceiling heights.

You may need to come up with a labelling scheme for the accessories, so factor in the cost for that when reviewing for inspection quote (should already have been done and regularly tested (and kept with alarm paper work), but not always available!).

Note accessory identification on form. For maintained, visual check for illumination of sign. Then for circuit under test, isolate and check lamps are on. If lamp not on .. note to check both lamp and battery condition in addition to the usual checks (visual, cpc continuity, etc) for that accessory. Worth taking safety glasses/portable vac/waste bag with you (and don't swallow any of the flies!).

Depends if it's out of hours or in use during inspection (I'd guess the latter, so one circuit at a time (even if you have additional help)). If it's going to be in use (particularly if it's something like a cinema) then try to get an idea of the availability of each section of the complex.

Make it clear whether your contract covers rectification or just reporting of problems. A carefully worded contract covering extra time costs (outside of your control) should be considered (section/room not available when previously agreed that it would be). You may want to have the discussion about one off inspection versus ongoing inspection/maintenance contract as well.

 

[High Tower]

Thanks boys your both gems. !!

 

[Des 56]

Excellent advise from topquark

 

[Paul.M]

This site has a few good pointers with diagrams.Commercial Electrical Testing | Emergency Lighting Testing

 

[hazelm]

Hi Paul.m

Do you know from where the HSE book may be obtained, please?

 

[Paul.M]

Hi Paul.m

Do you know from where the HSE book may be obtained, please?

IEE Electricians Guide to Emergency Lighting.£19.34 from Amazon.

 

[High Tower]

I got one on order

 

[i=p/u]

yh just knock off mcbs at a time that suits the business, i.e, i done a Chinese once and the best time that suited me was 8am too 12 when they opened , change any blackened lamps and checked indication of battery charging and cleaned plastic covers.

there was no form of identification on fittings and no log book present.. easy money