Test your Emergency Lighting after the Hot Weather
Most UK emergency lighting is not designed to withstand prolonged periods of extreme heat. Inside a self contained emergency light the temperature can rise rapidly when it has been exposed to full sun all day. The light will generate some of it’s own heat from the control gear especially if it is in a IP rated housing that heat has no where to go.
Elevated temperatures can exert considerable stress on the various components of emergency lighting units:
**Batteries:** Often the weakest link in the system when exposed to heat, batteries can experience a significant reduction in lifespan and capacity. High temperatures accelerate the chemical reactions within the battery. This leads to faster degradation and a decreased ability to hold a charge. Which can result in shorter illumination times during a power outage, potentially jeopardizing safety. This is one of the reasons that the batteries need changing every 3 to 4 years to ensure that the 3 hour duration is achieved.
**Electronics:** The control gear and other electronic components within emergency lights are also susceptible to damage from overheating. Excessive heat can cause malfunctions, leading to the failure of the lights to activate during an emergency.
**LEDs:** While LEDs are generally more energy-efficient and produce less heat than traditional light sources, prolonged exposure to high ambient temperatures can still affect their performance. Lumen depreciation, a gradual decrease in light output over time, can be accelerated in hot conditions.
The Critical Importance of Hot Weather Testing
Even though a full duration test may not be scheduled, it is a good idea to do a test early to see if the batteries can still provide you with 3 hours emergency lighting.
Understanding the impact of heat on emergency lights is essential for ensuring the safety and compliance of your premises. By implementing proactive maintenance strategies and conducting thorough testing, particularly in hot weather conditions, you can significantly enhance the reliability of your emergency lighting systems.
Don’t wait for a failure to occur – ensure your emergency lights are ready to perform when you need them most.
