Dear Mr. Harrison:
There are three immediate sources or standards you may use for testing emergency
lighting equipment. Try the BOCA Fire Prevention Code (which is similar to the
SBCCI) or new ICC Fire Prevention Code. BOCA requires at least a 30-second test
each month and 1-hour test each year. The OSHA Standards for General Industry
generally reference NFPA 101 which requires the 30-second test monthly and 1 1/2
hours' test each year. The NFPA Handbook recommends a minimum of 1 1/2 hours
testing during which time the voltage cannot drop below 87.5% of normal. OSHA, and
most fire officials, also require that adequate and accurate records be kept of EM
lighting equipment testing--doesn't have to be fancy.
Hope this helpful.

David Chaplin, CFPS
Roanoke, Virginia


harrik7 wrote:

> Good Morning,
>
> I am conducting a bench mark survey with other University institutions to
> determine the regularity of testing emergency equipment.  To include: exit
> signs, emergency lights, emergency generators, fire extinguishers,cooking
> hoods, automatic sprinkler systems and standpipe systems.
>
> At Auburn University, we are currently inspecting our sprinklers and
> standpipes at intervals required by NFPA 25.  Our Fire extinguishers are
> inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 10 and all cooking hoods are
> inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 96.  If you are performing
> inspection and testing on these systems in addition to these requirements,
> will you please indicate the regularity of the test?
>
> In addition, I am trying to find out at what intervals other Universities are
> testing emergency lights.
>
> Any information you can provide is greatly appreciated.  I need this
> information as soon as possible.  If you have any questions, or if I can be of
> assistance, please contact me at (334)844-4870 or email at
> [log in to unmask]
>
> Kenneth Harrison, Fire Protection Engineer
> Auburn University Office of Safety & Environmental Health
> 316 Leach Science Center
> Auburn, AL 36849