As a shared and safe space, schools are required to have emergency lighting for all essential escape routes, large rooms and communal areas, toilets and where high-risk zones (such as kitchens, boiler rooms, laboratories, workshops) and critical emergency equipment is located. All systems in Irish schools should be designed and installed to the Irish Standard for Emergency Lighting (IS 3217), tested quarterly and annually, in addition to documentation recorded and maintained in the required emergency lighting logbook.
Emergency Lighting Logbooks
Logbooks are needed to demonstrate compliance with Emergency Lighting Standards (IS 3217:2023), Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, and for insurance and fire inspection purposes. Simple visual and functional tests can be overseen by trained staff to check for any broken/unlit light and battery checks. However, annual or periodic testing should be carried out by a trained and qualified electrician, like those at the PAT Group. LED Lighting systems are also recommended for their long life span (30,000 – 50,000+ hours) and low energy efficiency.
Emergency Lighting School Maintenance
During annual testing, the electrician will isolate mains power to simulate a power failure to confirm that all systems light correctly, ensure that each unit remains illuminated for the full duration of (1-3 hours, typically 3), in addition to identifying any units that fail, have low battery issues or are obstructed or damaged, before restoring the mains supply and ensuring all battery units begin to recharge. All testing data and results will be recorded into the logbook for reference and any recommendations for upgrades or for failed/broken fittings will be suggested. These annual tests can easily be carried out with no disruption during term breaks or after hours.
Importance of Testing in Schools
It is particularly important for schools to maintain their records and systems, especially considering the numbers and accessibility needs for students of different age groups. If power mains go out, students may be at risk of additional hazards in lab spaces, large rooms such as gymnasiums, increased tripping risks, and/or limited accessibility to lifts and stairwells. With emergency lighting systems in place, systems will instantly light and remain with power, to allow for easier evacuation – and students being able to be evacuated safely by teachers in often under five minutes to designated meeting points.
Emergency Lighting Maintenance for Schools
Emergency lighting maintenance for schools is a legal requirement to ensure the safety of all who study and work in schools. Give us a call now on 01-9602636 or contact us online to find out more school emergency lighting maintenance.
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