Knowledge article
Emergency Lighting Remedial Works
Emergency lighting remedial works put right defects found during testing — replacing batteries and luminaires, adding coverage and correcting faults.
Remedial works restore an emergency lighting system to full working order after testing or inspection reveals defects. Because emergency lighting is a life-safety system, remedials should be carried out promptly by a competent person.
Typical remedial work
- Replacing failed batteries — the most frequent job, often prompted by the annual duration test.
- Replacing faulty luminaires and lamps.
- Adding coverage where a fire risk assessment or building change has left a gap (for example after a new partition or extension).
- Correcting wiring or charging faults.
- Relocating obstructed fittings.
Prioritising the work
Treat anything that leaves an escape route unlit as urgent. Lower-impact improvements (for example upgrading older fittings to LED) can be planned. Where many fittings are failing at once, a phased replacement programme may be the most cost-effective route.
Closing the loop
Record every remedial action in the logbook, and re-test the affected fittings to confirm they now perform. This keeps the system reliable and the responsible person demonstrably compliant. For how to test, see the emergency lighting testing guide.
Related service
Emergency Lighting Remedials
Rectification of defects identified during emergency lighting testing.
Learn moreMore in this topic
Knowledge article
Emergency Lighting Annual Duration Testing
The annual emergency lighting test discharges the batteries for their full rated duration (commonly 3 hours) to confirm the system lasts the required period.
Learn moreStandard explained
BS 5266 Overview: Emergency Lighting Standard
BS 5266 is the UK code of practice for emergency lighting — covering design, installation and maintenance so illumination is provided when the normal supply fails.
Learn moreKnowledge article
Common Emergency Lighting Defects
Common emergency lighting defects include failed batteries, faulty luminaires, missing coverage, no logbook and fittings that light up but fail the duration test.
Learn moreKnowledge article
Emergency Lighting Explained
Emergency lighting provides illumination automatically when the normal supply fails, helping people evacuate safely — governed by BS 5266.
Learn moreThis article provides general guidance and distinguishes legislation, British Standards and good practice. It is not legal advice. Always confirm the specific duties applying to your property and tenure.