Emergency lights and exit signs

Testing

According to the Kansas State Fire Marshal, emergency lighting is required in every building that is required to have two or more exits.

The City of Temecula Fire Department cites California Fire Code 1032.10.1: the activation test is done monthly for at least 30 seconds, by pressing the test button or flipping the dedicated breaker.

Temecula cites California Fire Code 1032.10.2: the power test runs once a year for at least 90 minutes, and a unit that fails should be repaired or replaced.

Temecula says the owner must keep written records of the inspections and tests and show the log during the annual fire and life safety inspection.

A Pea Ridge and Fayetteville, Arkansas fire marshal guide lists dead backup batteries in exit signs and emergency lights as the most common lighting violation, and says to test monthly and keep records.

OSHA 1910.37(b)(6) requires each exit sign to be lit to at least five foot-candles by a reliable light source and to be a distinctive color.

OSHA 1910.37(b)(1) requires each exit route to be lit well enough for an employee with normal vision to see along it.

Sources: 30 seconds monthly, 90 minutes yearly; Monthly activation test; Most common lighting violation in NW Arkansas; Exit sign brightness