## **Non-Maintained Emergency Light Fittings** Non-maintained emergency light fittings are designed to activate only during a mains power failure, providing illumination to facilitate safe evacuation. Under normal conditions, these lights remain off and do not contribute to the building's general lighting. They are commonly used in workplaces and environments where occupants are familiar with the escape routes. --- ### **How Non-Maintained Emergency Lights Work** - **Standby Mode:** Under normal power conditions, non-maintained lights remain off while their internal batteries are kept charged via a constant trickle charge from the mains supply. - **Activation During Power Failure:** In the event of a mains power outage, the fittings automatically switch on, drawing power from their internal batteries to illuminate escape routes and exits. - **Duration:** Typically, these lights are designed to provide illumination for a minimum of three hours, allowing sufficient time for occupants to evacuate safely. --- ### **Common Applications** Non-maintained emergency lights are suitable for environments where occupants are familiar with the building layout and escape routes, such as: - **Offices and Workplaces:** Ensures that employees can safely exit during a power failure. - **Schools and Educational Institutions:** Provides emergency illumination in classrooms and corridors. - **Factories and Warehouses:** Illuminates escape routes in industrial settings. --- ### **Common Types of Non-Maintained Emergency Fittings** 1. **Bulkhead Lights:** - **Description:** Durable, wall or ceiling-mounted units with a robust design. - **Use Case:** Ideal for illuminating escape routes, stairwells, and exits in industrial and commercial buildings. 2. **Twin Spotlights:** - **Description:** Features two adjustable heads to direct light over a wider area. - **Use Case:** Suitable for large open spaces like warehouses and factories, providing focused illumination during emergencies. 3. **Recessed Downlights:** - **Description:** Discreet fittings installed into ceilings for a streamlined appearance. - **Use Case:** Commonly used in offices and commercial spaces where aesthetics are important. 4. **Exit Signs:** - **Description:** Illuminated signs indicating the direction of escape routes. - **Use Case:** Essential for marking exits and pathways in all building types. --- ### **Maintenance Requirements** Regular testing and maintenance are crucial to ensure non-maintained emergency lighting systems function correctly during emergencies. According to **BS 5266-1**, the following schedule is recommended: - **Monthly Functional Test:** - **Procedure:** Briefly simulate a mains power failure to ensure all emergency lights activate and illuminate. - **Duration:** Typically a short period sufficient to confirm operation. - **Record Keeping:** Log results and any issues identified. - **Annual Full Duration Test:** - **Procedure:** Simulate a mains failure and ensure that all emergency lights remain illuminated for their full rated duration (usually three hours). - **Assessment:** Verify battery performance and light output. - **Maintenance:** Replace any defective components or batteries that do not meet performance criteria. - **Routine Inspections:** - **Visual Checks:** Regularly inspect fittings for physical damage, cleanliness, and unobstructed operation. - **Battery Health:** Monitor charging indicators and ensure batteries are holding charge effectively. Adhering to this maintenance schedule ensures compliance with UK regulations and guarantees that the emergency lighting system will perform effectively when needed. --- ### **Advantages of Non-Maintained Fittings** - **Energy Efficiency:** Consumes power only during emergencies, leading to lower energy usage compared to maintained fittings. - **Reduced Wear and Tear:** Less frequent use results in longer lifespan of components. - **Cost-Effective:** Lower operational costs due to reduced energy consumption and maintenance needs. --- ### **Disadvantages** - **No Illumination During Normal Operation:** Does not contribute to general lighting, which may be a limitation in certain settings. - **Potential Delayed Activation:** Although designed to activate immediately during power failures, there may be a brief delay compared to maintained systems. --- By integrating non-maintained emergency light fittings appropriately within a building's safety plan, compliance with UK safety standards is achieved, ensuring occupant safety during power outages.