3 Types of Testing Keep You Compliant
Currently, there are three basic methods for testing emergency lighting systems to help building owners achieve compliance – manual testing, self-diagnostic and a third-party inspector. Manual testing is the most common but also the most timely and costly method. Testing in compliance with NFPA 101 requirements can take up to 17 hours of manpower per month to manually test 100 units.
Because the process of manual testing is so laborious, lighting manufacturers developed self-diagnostic technology that automatically tests the unit every month to check for key component failures such as lamp, battery or transfer fault. If a failure is detected, this will be visually indicated on the fixture. Although this solution still requires a monthly visual inspection, it can reduce the amount of time it takes to complete the required testing by up to 66 percent.
Another option is to hire a third-party inspector – typically an electrical contractor – to conduct the testing. This completely removes the responsibility of manually testing and repairing emergency lighting and exit signs from the building owner and facility manager.
Everyone Must Take Responsibility
While all of the responsibility currently falls on the campus facilities manager, other campus stakeholders can do their part to ensure the responsibility is shared. Local, state and federal government can play a valuable role in setting and enforcing guidelines and regulations. The more emphasis government agencies place on properly operating emergency lighting systems, the more likely campuses will make it a higher priority.
Industry associations and watchdog groups must continue to improve existing standards and establish new codes and requirements to ensure campus stakeholders are aware of their responsibilities and that building occupants are reasonably protected.
Campus administrators, specifying engineers, contractors, architects and facility managers must make emergency lighting systems a top priority. From specification and installation to inspection and maintenance, exit signs and emergency lighting cannot be viewed as a cost-cutting or a negotiable line item. Too many lives depend on a transparent system that will be there – and working – when necessary.
Lighting system manufacturers must continue to push the envelope and recognize the cost and labor issues involved in the testing/inspection process. They should develop advanced solutions that simplify compliance for campus administrators and ensure public safety.
Finally, students, faculty and staff would also be well-served to heighten their safety awareness. It is always a smart idea to know where exit doors and stairways are located as well as the quickest and most secure egress path to safety. Particularly in buildings in which people are routinely housed, each person has a right to know about the presence and maintenance of emergency signage and lighting.
