April 27, 2018 5:03 AM EDT
You may have come across different colored emergency lights in hospitals, high rise buildings, offices and even institutions. Emergency lights serve an important purpose you might not be aware. These lights are present everywhere in order to maintain health and safety standards by eliminating the chances of chaos if an unfortunate situation arises, such as a fire breakout or earthquake.
Emergency lights are fun to watch because of their luminous colors. Nonetheless, if you think you know very less about emergency lighting, here is how you can learn more about them.
Frequently asked questions regarding emergency lights are answered below:
- What are emergency lights?
Emergency lights are battery operated lights which switch on automatically when an area (where they are placed) undergoes electricity power outage. They help people to see in the dark and lead the way towards possible exits.
- What are the advantages of emergency lights?
There are various benefits of emergency lights. The important ones include the safety of people during unfortunate incidents such as fires and earthquakes. Emergency lights help lead people in the right direction when there is no other light source.
- How can emergency lights benefit my business?
Emergency lights are necessary in almost all businesses as per the Australian law. The evacuation planning will include emergency lights and this will help your insurance requirements as well.
- How do you maintain emergency lights?
Emergency lights are maintained via emergency light testing. Professional companies can be hired to send professional inspectors over to your premises for a thorough inspection.
- When should I get emergency light tests done?
According to the AS2293.2 standard law for emergency lighting tests and inspection, all emergency lights require a bi-annual testing by a professional tester.
- What will the tests include?
The inspections are thorough. The inspections will include the testing of lamps as well as the replacement of any faulty lights and bulbs. A discharge test will be run on the device.
- What is a discharge test?
A discharge test is when the inspector of emergency lights switches the battery charger off and fakes a power outage for up to 90 minutes or so. This test will ensure the true workability of the emergency lights.
- Is emergency light testing and tagging costly?
Emergency light tests and tagging services are not as costly most people and businesses imagine them to be. Since the tests need to be conducted in 6 month intervals, it is safe to say that the tests and tags are extremely affordable and will surely lower costs in the long run.
- What happens if the lights are not tested?
In case you don’t invest in emergency light testing, your emergency signage may stop working and especially cause a problem if a catastrophic event takes place. Moreover, if accidents happen which can be attributed to the mere deficiency of the emergency light system during a power issue, your business will be held liable in terms of negligence and this may affect your insurance.