Building Emergency Lighting Monthly Test Checklist

This building emergency lighting monthly test checklist implements the monthly 30-second functional test requirements of NFPA 101 Life Safety Code Section 7.9.3 and IBC Section 1006 for emergency lighting and exit sign systems. Emergency lighting provides minimum illumination levels along egress paths during power failures, enabling occupants to safely evacuate. Monthly 30-second tests and annual 90-minute full-duration tests are required to verify battery systems maintain adequate capacity to s

  • Industry: Property Management
  • Frequency: Monthly (30-Second Test) / Annually (90-Minute Full Test)
  • Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes (full building monthly test)
  • Role: Property Manager / Maintenance Technician
  • Total Items: 28
  • Compliance: NFPA 101 Life Safety Code Section 7.9, IBC Section 1006 Emergency Lighting, NFPA 1 Fire Code, NFPA 72 Fire Alarm Emergency Lighting Power, IEC 60598-2-22 Luminaires for Emergency Lighting

Emergency Lighting Units

Test all emergency lighting units throughout building.

  • All emergency lighting units located and documented on building map?
  • Test button on each unit activates emergency mode when pressed?
  • All units maintain illumination for full 30-second test duration?
  • No physically damaged units (broken lens, exposed wiring, burned marks)?
  • All required egress paths have functional emergency lighting coverage?
  • No emergency lighting units obstructed by signs, storage, or decorations?

Exit Signs

Test all exit signs for illumination and battery backup.

  • All exit signs continuously illuminated during normal power?
  • Exit sign battery backup activates when power simulated as off?
  • All exit signs visible from required distances (unobstructed line of sight)?
  • No damaged or dark exit signs (burned-out bulbs or LED failures)?
  • Directional arrows on all exit signs pointing in correct direction?

Coverage Locations

Verify emergency lighting coverage in all required areas.

  • All stairwells have functional emergency lighting?
  • All corridors and hallways have functional emergency lighting?
  • Lobby and primary exit areas have emergency lighting?
  • Mechanical rooms, boiler rooms, and electrical rooms have emergency lighting?
  • Parking garage or underground areas have adequate emergency lighting?

Annual 90-Minute Full Duration Test

Annual full-duration test requirements (complete when applicable).

  • Annual 90-minute full-duration test performed?
  • All units maintained illumination for full 90-minute duration?
  • Annual test date documented in records?
  • All failed units from annual test replaced or repaired before next occupancy?

Test Records

Document all test results per code requirements.

  • Monthly test log completed listing each unit, location, and pass/fail result?
  • All failed units listed with location and repair status?
  • Repairs or replacements scheduled for all failed units?
  • Test records filed and retained for minimum 3 years?
  • Next monthly test date scheduled?
  • Number of units tested matches building emergency lighting inventory count?
  • Batteries in self-contained units within 4-5 year replacement lifespan?
  • Older incandescent emergency lights assessed for LED conversion for improved battery life?

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Why Use This Building Emergency Lighting Monthly Test Checklist?

This building emergency lighting monthly test checklist helps property management teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for property manager / maintenance technician professionals, this checklist covers 28 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: monthly (30-second test) / annually (90-minute full test).

Ensures compliance with NFPA 101 Life Safety Code Section 7.9, IBC Section 1006 Emergency Lighting, NFPA 1 Fire Code, NFPA 72 Fire Alarm Emergency Lighting Power, IEC 60598-2-22 Luminaires for Emergency Lighting, Local Building Department Requirements, UK BS 5266 Emergency Lighting, Australia AS 2293 Emergency Escape Lighting. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Building Emergency Lighting Monthly Test Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 28 inspection items across 5 sections: Emergency Lighting Units, Exit Signs, Coverage Locations, Annual 90-Minute Full Duration Test, Test Records. It is designed for property management operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed monthly (30-second test) / annually (90-minute full test). Each completion takes approximately 20-30 minutes (full building monthly test).

Who should use this Building Emergency Lighting Monthly Test Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Property Manager / Maintenance Technician professionals in the property management industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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