An emergency lighting inspection checklist should distinguish a routine visual observation from a planned functional or duration test. Seeing a light fitting on the ceiling does not prove it will illuminate the escape route during a power failure. Keep the observation and the competent testing evidence separately identifiable.
Before using the checklist
Begin with the fire risk assessment, lighting asset list, system instructions and applicable local requirements. UK government fire-safety guidance discusses checking the adequacy of emergency lighting and maintaining and testing it. The legal framework described by that source is jurisdiction-specific. This checklist does not set Saudi test intervals or replace a competent assessment of lighting coverage and performance.
Copy and adapt: Use this original checklist within your controlled site process. Add the applicable references and retain evidence for each decision.
Emergency Lighting Inspection Checklist and Defect Log
| Review item | What to confirm or record |
|---|---|
| Asset and location | Record the fitting or system ID and the route or area served. |
| Physical condition | Observe visible damage, obstruction, dirt or signs of deterioration from a safe position. |
| Route changes | Check whether partitions, storage or layout changes could affect the intended escape arrangement. |
| Indicators | Record visible indicator condition against the manufacturer instructions; do not infer a battery test result. |
| Test records | Check the required inspection and testing records are available and linked to the correct assets. |
| Outstanding defects | Review previous faults, repair requests and any temporary arrangements. |
| Competent follow-up | Assign technical assessment, testing or repair to suitably competent people. |
| Closure | Record repair and retest evidence and update the responsible person on any remaining limitation. |
A worked example
Illustrative example: a corridor layout has changed and a new partition blocks light reaching part of the route. The fitting itself looks undamaged. The inspector records the layout change and asks the responsible person for a competent review. Replacing a battery without assessing the changed coverage would not resolve that concern.
Follow-up and records
Do not open electrical fittings, interrupt supplies or perform a full discharge test as an informal walk-round activity. Tests need planning so occupants are protected and the system can recover as required. Use a defect log with asset, observation, date, person informed, interim arrangement, repair owner and retest reference. Escalate a fault affecting an escape route promptly through the premises procedure.
Record the date, location or asset, findings, action owner, due or hold point and closure evidence. Use Yes / No / Not applicable only with a reason where needed. A blank or unexplained tick should not hide an unresolved concern.
Track outstanding actions in your daily safety officer report. Review recurring problems through your safety committee action log.
Common questions
Does a lit charge indicator prove emergency performance?
No. Interpret it using the product instructions and retain the required functional and duration test evidence.
What test frequency should we use?
Confirm the applicable requirements, design and manufacturer instructions with the responsible competent person. This checklist does not prescribe one universal interval.
Sources and applicability
The sources below identify their own jurisdictions or product scope. Confirm current Saudi requirements, your client procedures and relevant manufacturer instructions before adopting this example. No regulator or client approval of this checklist is claimed.
- GOV.UK: Duties under fire safety legislation — England fire-safety guidance; check applicability.