LUX Level - Emergency Lighting

[Tonyc8310]

Hi All,

A common theme running in FRA reports for our properties (same assessor) is that LUX level reading should be taken to ensure suitable illumination to aid escape.

We have our emergency lighting maintained, drain down test, monthly 'flick test' etc. Is there an expectation that we need to bring in a LUX meter & record measurements?

Thanks

[Tom Sutton]

This should have been done when the EL was installed and they usually over exceed the required standards but as you are being challanged then I would retest the system and get a written report to prove the case.

[Tonyc8310]

On 24/04/2022 at 08:52, Tom Sutton said:

This should have been done when the EL was installed and they usually over exceed the required standards but as you are being challanged then I would retest the system and get a written report to prove the case.

Thanks Tom,

It appears to be a 'blanket' statement by the same assessor on numerous properties, especially with non led lighting installed.

I have asked to conduct a visual check during the darker hours to check there is sufficient illumination, although not a LUX level reading, as you mention it was installed to the standard!

[Guest Jeff G]

On 08/04/2022 at 16:45, Tonyc8310 said:

Hi All,

A common theme running in FRA reports for our properties (same assessor) is that LUX level reading should be taken to ensure suitable illumination to aid escape.

We have our emergency lighting maintained, drain down test, monthly 'flick test' etc. Is there an expectation that we need to bring in a LUX meter & record measurements?

Thanks

This is not a requirement of BS5266 under general testing and maintenance regimes. What the Assessor should of asked (if he or she had reason to) was for the RP to confirm the emergency lighting system delivered the correct light levels to aid escape. At which point the RP can refer to the original design specification and the photometric survey which should of been done at that time. A common mistake with lesser competent designers is the increase LUX level for certaina reas of the building, for instance, around critical firefighting or alarm systems.

[delboy]

If there is a Stay Put policy in place in a PB block, is this necessary??

[AnthonyB]

On 09/06/2022 at 19:29, delboy said:

If there is a Stay Put policy in place in a PB block, is this necessary??

Its emergency lighting not fire lighting, there may be other power failure causes where someone needs to safely navigate the stairs, also even in stay put premises there is often a need to evacuate other than the fire flat.

That's why both regulations and guidance require it's provision as well as it being subject to a system of maintenance and being fit for purpose.