Question: What are the requirements for Pathways Lighting and maintenance of Emergency Lights?

Answer: Many folks are aware of OSHA 29 CFR 1910.37 Exit Routes and Emergency Planning requirements for Exit signs and routes.  However, for the requirements for pathway lighting to exits and maintenance, you must refer to  Ohio Fire Code.   

Section 1008 Means of egress illumination 1008.3 Emergency power for illumination. The power supply for means of egress illumination shall normally be provided by the premises’ electrical supply and 1008.3.1 General. In the event of power supply failure in rooms and spaces that require two or more means of egress an emergency electrical system shall automatically illuminate all of the following areas: aisles, corridors and exit access stairways and ramps.

For Testing and Maintenance look at Ohio Fire Code 604.6 Emergency lighting equipment.

604.6.1 An Activation test – shall be completed monthly. The activation test shall ensure the emergency lighting activates automatically upon normal electrical disconnect and stays sufficiently illuminated for not less than 30 seconds.  604.6.1.1 Activation test record-  Records of tests shall be maintained and shall include the location of the emergency lighting tested, whether the unit passed or failed, the date of the test and the person completing the test.

604.6.2 Power test – For battery-powered emergency lighting, a power test of the emergency lighting equipment shall be completed annually. The power test shall operate the emergency lighting for not less than 90 minutes and shall remain sufficiently illuminated for the duration of the test. 604.6.2.1 Power test records –  shall be maintained. The record shall include the location of the emergency lighting tested, whether the unit passed or failed, the date of the test and the person completing the test.

Now is a great time to incorporate your monthly test with your other inspections.  You can add them to your Fire Extinguisher check list.  You can also add the yearly testing to your preventative Maintenance program to ensure annual testing is completed.

*Provided by the Ohio BWC safety consultants.