Free checklist and log sheet Emergency lighting test checklist and log
How often emergency lights and exit signs are tested, what to check on each fixture, and what the written record has to show. With a printable log sheet and a calculator for the next test dates.
When emergency lights are tested
- Every month, a functional test of at least 30 seconds, with tests 3 to 5 weeks apart (NFPA 101 §7.9.3). The authority having jurisdiction may approve a longer interval.
- Once a year, a 90-minute test of battery-powered units.
- In both tests the lights must stay fully lit for the whole time.
- Self-testing units test themselves every 30 days and show faults on an indicator. They still need a look every 30 days, the annual 90-minute test and written records.
- Computer-based self-testing systems that run and record both tests on their own need no manual log.
The International Fire Code says the same: a monthly activation test of 30 seconds or more and an annual 90-minute power test (IFC 2012 §604.5). Check the editions adopted where the building is.
What to check on each fixture
Switch the unit to battery with its test button, the breaker or a test switch, then check:
| # | Check | Common failures | OK |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Every lamp comes on and stays fully lit for the whole test | A lamp stays dark, flickers, or dims before the time is up. | |
| 2 | Charge or status indicator normal, no fault shown | Charge light off, or a self-testing unit showing a fault code. | |
| 3 | Exit legend lit and readable, arrows point the right way | Letters dark or faded, or an arrow pointing away from the exit. | |
| 4 | Lamp heads aimed along the exit path and not blocked | Heads knocked toward the ceiling, or hidden by shelving or signs. | |
| 5 | Housing, lens and mounting intact and secure | Cracked lens, a unit hanging from its wires, a missing cover. |
Item 3 applies to exit signs, and item 4 to fixtures with lamp heads.
What the record has to show
- Where the fixture is
- The date of the test, and whether it was the 30-second or the 90-minute test
- Pass or fail
- Who did the test
Keep the records on site for 3 years (IFC 2012 §604.5), where the fire marshal or surveyor can see them.
Test log sheet
Prints as a blank sheet with room for twelve tests.
Building: ______________________________ Month: ____________
| Location | Fixture | Date | 30 s / 90 min | Pass / fail | Initials |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Questions
How often do emergency lights have to be tested?
A functional test of at least 30 seconds every month, 3 to 5 weeks apart, and a 90-minute test once a year for battery-powered units (NFPA 101 §7.9.3). The lights must stay fully lit for the whole test.
Do self-testing emergency lights still need a monthly check?
Yes. Self-testing units run their own 30-second test every 30 days and show a fault on their indicator, but someone still has to look at them every 30 days, the annual 90-minute test still applies, and the results are still written down. Only computer-based systems that run and record both tests on their own do away with the manual log.
What has to be written in the test log?
Under the International Fire Code (2012 edition, §604.5), each test record shows the fixture's location, the date, pass or fail, and who did the test, and the records are kept on site for 3 years. NFPA 101 also asks for written records of inspections and tests for the authority having jurisdiction.
Who is allowed to test emergency lights?
No license or certification is required. The building owner is responsible. Monthly tests are usually done by maintenance staff; the annual 90-minute test is often done by an electrician or a fire and life-safety company. The IFC asks that testing is overseen by a properly instructed person.
What if a light fails the 90-minute test?
It has failed if any lamp goes out or dims before 90 minutes are up. Write down how long it lasted, repair it or replace the battery, and test it again.
Does this apply to hospitals and nursing homes?
Yes. CMS surveys emergency lighting under tag K291, which asks for lighting that lasts at least 1½ hours as set out in NFPA 101 §7.9. CMS enforces the 2012 edition of NFPA 101.
Our own summary of NFPA 101 §7.9.3 and IFC §604.5, not the text of either code. Follow the editions adopted by the authority having jurisdiction and the fixture maker's instructions.