Testing requirements and log books
Led Lighting · Lesson 14 · Intermediate
Purpose
Plan commissioning, periodic function/duration tests and a traceable emergency-lighting log without compromising safety.
Learning objectives
- Define the design boundary
- Use current product/project evidence
- Calculate with stated assumptions
- Verify maintained and failure performance
Routine tests demonstrate readiness; they do not replace inspection, cleaning, battery capacity assessment or correction. Frequencies and durations follow current standards, fire strategy and equipment instructions.
Core theory
Commission every luminaire/sign, circuit and mode with as-builts, photometric/spacing evidence, cause-effect tests, battery duration and completion certificates.
Perform frequent visual/indicator checks and prescribed short function tests; carry out full-duration tests at the applicable interval with recovery time and occupant risk managed.
Record date, asset/circuit, test type/duration, result, defects, isolation/inhibition, corrective action, retest and responsible person. Automated DALI reports require review and do not prove physical light distribution.
| Term | Meaning | Symbol | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Function test | Short test of changeover, source and lamp operation | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Duration test | Test proving required emergency operating time | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Log book | Controlled lifecycle record of tests, defects and actions | Not applicable | Not applicable |
Assumptions: Supplied values are fictional design inputs; Exact current standards and photometric/product data remain governing.
- Risk: Emergency capacity may be depleted during occupancy.
- Schedule: Test during low-risk closure with contingency or staged coverage.
- Record: Log discharge, restoration, recharge indication and defects/retest.
Reschedule/control the test so life-safety coverage is not knowingly unavailable.
Reasonableness check: The answer distinguishes average screening from point, uniformity, glare, emergency and maintained-performance requirements.
- Treating standby lighting as identical to escape lighting
- Using initial lumens without utilization or maintenance losses
- Selecting color quality or glare from one headline number
Where this appears in practice
Complete lighting design coordinates visual task, occupants, fire strategy, photometry, emergency modes, controls, energy, maintenance and verification.
Knowledge check
Does an automated ‘pass’ remove the need to inspect the emitted light and site condition?
No. Automation verifies reported functions, not all physical/photometric conditions.
Answer: No. Automation verifies reported functions, not all physical/photometric conditions.
Practical exercise
Build a compliant asset log and testing calendar with recharge and defect contingencies.
Summary
- Emergency category follows risk and activity
- Average lux is only one design metric
- Controls must fail to a documented safe/useful state
Sources and review
- BS 5266-1:2025: Emergency lighting code of practice: BSI; 2025; United Kingdom
- SLL Code for Lighting: CIBSE / Society of Light and Lighting; Current edition and application guidance must be confirmed; United Kingdom
- CIE position statement on colour quality metrics: CIE; Second edition, 2025; International
- DALI-2 and DALI Emergency certification: DALI Alliance; Current product database/status must be checked; International
Editorial review date: 2026-08-22. Professional electrical review is pending.