When an emergency strikes, whether it’s a fire, blackout or evacuation, exit and emergency lighting can be the difference between order and chaos. But here’s the catch: just having these lights installed isn’t enough. They need to be fully compliant, regularly tested, and in working condition to meet Australian standards.
What Are Emergency and Exit Lights?
Emergency lights provide illumination when normal lighting fails (like during a power outage), while exit signs guide occupants safely out of the building.
They’re legally required in most commercial, industrial and public buildings in Australia, including offices, retail stores, schools, warehouses, aged care, and more.
What Does the Law Say?
In Australia, exit and emergency lighting must comply with AS 2293.1, AS 2293.2, and AS 2293.3 standards. These standards set out how systems should be:
- Installed
- Maintained
- Tested
- Positioned for visibility and accessibility
Under the National Construction Code (NCC), building owners and managers are responsible for ensuring that emergency lighting systems are kept in working order at all times.
How Often Do They Need Testing?
Exit and emergency lighting must undergo scheduled testing every 6 months in accordance with AS/NZS 2293.2.
Testing includes:
- 90-minute discharge test to ensure battery backup performance
- Inspection of fittings, wiring, and labelling
- Recording results in a logbook for compliance purposes
- Repair or replacement of any faulty units
This testing must be done by a qualified electrician, and failure to comply could result in fines, insurance issues, or worse, people being put at risk during an emergency.
Signs Your System May Be Non-Compliant
You might be overdue for an inspection if:
- Your lights don’t illuminate during a blackout
- You can’t find a test logbook
- Some exit signs are flickering, damaged or dim
- You’ve recently renovated or changed building layouts
- It’s been more than 6 months since your last test
If you’re unsure, it’s best to book a compliance check, because when the lights go out, it’s too late to find out something’s broken.
Who Needs to Comply?
If you’re a:
- Commercial property owner or tenant
- Facility or operations manager
- School, council or government site operator
- Aged care or healthcare provider
- Business in a multi-tenant complex
You have a legal obligation to ensure your emergency lighting is maintained and compliant.
Don’t Risk It—Stay on Top of Maintenance
A neglected emergency lighting system is a ticking time bomb. It might seem like a minor detail, but in a real emergency, it’s absolutely critical.
Let DJL Electrical handle the ongoing maintenance of your exit and emergency lighting. We’ll regularly test, service, and keep your system in top working order, no stress, no shortcuts. Maintenance isn’t optional, it’s essential. Keep your emergency lights functioning with DJL Electrical.
