Who's responsible
The owner of a building (often through a property manager) is responsible for maintaining life-safety systems, including emergency lighting and exit signs, and for keeping test records available for the fire inspector.
What testing involves
- Routine visual and functional checks at the intervals the Fire Code sets
- An annual test running units on battery for their rated duration
- Battery and lamp replacement as needed
- A logbook recording each inspection and test
Common failures
Dead batteries in older units, failed charging circuits, damaged remote heads and exit signs that have been painted over or relocated during renovations.
We set up the schedule, do the testing and keep the records. See emergency & exit lighting.
Quick questions
Can staff do the monthly checks?
Routine checks can be done by trained staff; annual full-duration testing and repairs are best done by an electrician.
What happens if units fail?
Failed units should be repaired or replaced promptly and the repair recorded.
Do exit signs need testing too?
Yes — exit signs with battery backup are part of the life-safety system.
