Emergency Light and Exit Sign Testing Checklist

Emergency lights and exit signs should not be treated as “install and forget” products. Batteries age, lamps fail, heads move, signs get blocked, and records get lost. A simple testing routine helps catch problems before an inspection or outage exposes them.

Code note: This guide is a practical purchasing and planning aid, not a code determination. Confirm final requirements with the authority having jurisdiction, the adopted code edition, and the project documents.

Monthly functional check

• Press the test button or use the approved test method for each fixture.
• Confirm emergency heads turn on and are aimed at the intended path.
• Confirm exit signs stay illuminated and are visible from the path of travel.
• Look for cracked lenses, missing arrows, blocked signs, damaged housings, and failed indicators.
• Record failures immediately and schedule repair or replacement.

Annual or extended runtime check

Many facilities plan a longer runtime test to confirm battery condition and emergency operation. The exact timing and duration should follow the adopted code, project requirements, and AHJ expectations. If units fail early, replace batteries, drivers, ballasts, lamps, or complete fixtures as appropriate.

Log details to capture

• Fixture location and asset ID if available.
• Date, tester, and test method.
• Pass/fail result and observed runtime.
• Battery, lamp, head, sign, or housing issues.
• Corrective action, replacement model, and completion date.

Replacement decision tree

• Replace emergency lights when batteries, heads, housings, or electronics are beyond practical repair.
• Replace exit signs when visibility, face, battery, or housing issues cannot be corrected.
• Use combo fixtures when one doorway needs both sign and emergency heads.
• Use ballasts and drivers when a compatible emergency component can restore the fixture safely.

Official references

• OSHA 1910.37: Exit route safeguards and lighting
• NFPA 101 Life Safety Code

Need help matching products to a project list? Send counts, photos, voltage, mounting notes, and any existing model numbers through Request a Quote.

Related guides

• Emergency Lighting Requirements Explained for Commercial Buildings
• Exit Sign Code Requirements for Facilities, Contractors, and Maintenance Teams
• Exit Sign and Emergency Light Combos vs Separate Fixtures
• Wet Location Emergency Lights and Exit Signs Guide