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5 Checks to Know If Your Exit Lights Would Work During an Emergency

Exit Light

Posted: December 19, 2025

Exit lights are a critical part of your building’s emergency safety system. During a fire, power outage, or evacuation, they guide occupants clearly and safely toward designated exits, often making the difference between chaos and controlled movement.

Yet, many workplaces overlook routine inspection and Emergency Lighting Maintenance until it’s too late. Ensuring your exit lights are functioning properly is essential for compliance, safety, and the overall wellbeing of your staff and visitors. 

Below are five essential checks to determine whether your exit lights will perform reliably when an emergency strikes. 

1. Are Your Exit Lights Illuminating Consistently?

Exit lights must remain fully always illuminated. Flickering lights, dim displays, or inconsistent power are immediate signs of fault. These issues not only create safety risks but also indicate larger electrical or battery-related problems. 

2. Is the Battery Backup Functional?

During an emergency, main power often fails first. A functioning battery backup ensures your exit lights remain operational even when the building loses electricity. Regular Emergency Light Testinghelps confirm batteries hold enough charge for the required duration, typically at least 90 minutes. 

3. Do the Lights Meet Current Compliance Standards?

Australian safety standards require exit lights to be tested every six months, with documentation updated accordingly. If your business hasn’t conducted these tests by reaching out to an expert Electrician Townsville or lacks proper records, it’s a sign of compliance gaps that could lead to fines or increased risk during emergencies. 

4. Are the Lights Free from Physical Damage or Obstructions?

Cracked casings, missing panels, dust accumulation, or blocked signage can all reduce visibility. Exit lights must be unobstructed, clearly visible from all angles, and physically secure to perform effectively during emergencies. 

5. Have You Performed a Full Duration Test Recently?

A duration test simulates a real emergency by activating the exit lights on battery mode for an extended period. This confirms whether the system can sustain illumination long enough for safe evacuation. Skipping duration tests increases the risk of unexpected failures.

Quick FAQs

How often should exit lights be tested in a commercial building?
Exit lights should be tested every six months as required by Australian standards. These tests include inspection, battery evaluation, operational checks, and proper record keeping for compliance.

Conclusion: Choose Voltec’s Expert Exit Light Testing Solutions 

Professional testing ensures your exit lights meet every safety and compliance requirement, reducing risks and ensuring reliable performance during emergencies. Voltec Maintenance provides expert Exit Light Testing, inspections, repairs, and compliance reporting tailored to commercial properties. Their trained technicians use industry-approved processes and advanced diagnostics to keep your emergency lighting ready when it matters most. Trust Voltec to help your workplace stay safe, compliant, and prepared.