Emergency Exit Light Inspection Checklist OSHA Safety Standard

Introduction

Regular inspection and testing of emergency exit lights and illuminated exit signs are critical for ensuring workplace safety during emergencies. This comprehensive checklist helps facility managers conduct thorough inspections in compliance with OSHA regulations and NFPA standards, ensuring that emergency lighting systems will function properly when needed most.

Following this emergency exit light inspection checklist as part of your routine facility maintenance helps create a safer work environment, ensures regulatory compliance, and may prevent potential liability issues. Well-maintained emergency lighting is essential for safe evacuation during power outages, fire emergencies, or other situations requiring rapid building evacuation.

Regulatory Requirements & Standards

  • OSHA 29 CFR 1910.37(b)(6): "Each exit sign must be illuminated to a surface value of at least five foot-candles (54 lux) by a reliable light source and be distinctive in color. Self-luminous or electroluminescent signs that have a minimum luminance surface value of at least .06 foot-lamberts (0.21 cd/m²) are permitted."
  • OSHA 29 CFR 1910.37(b)(1): "Each exit route must be adequately lighted so that an employee with normal vision can see along the exit route."
  • NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code): Requires emergency lighting for a duration of 90 minutes and specific illumination levels along the path of egress.
  • NFPA 101 Section 7.9.3: Requires functional testing of emergency lighting equipment at 30-day intervals for a minimum of 30 seconds and annual testing for a full 90-minute duration.
  • NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code): Article 700 covers emergency systems, including lighting for exit signs and means of egress.
  • International Building Code (IBC): Section 1013 covers requirements for exit signs, including illumination, visibility, and power sources.
  • International Fire Code (IFC): Section 1011 provides requirements for exit signs and egress illumination.

Required Inspection Frequencies

This checklist is structured to accommodate various inspection and testing intervals required by OSHA, NFPA, and other applicable standards. The table below summarizes the maintenance frequencies for emergency exit lighting:

Inspection Task Frequency Requirement Source
Visual Inspection Monthly NFPA 101
Functional Test (30-second) Monthly NFPA 101
Functional Test (90-minute) Annually NFPA 101
Cleaning As needed Best practice
Battery Replacement Per manufacturer or when failed test Manufacturer specifications
Exit Route Illumination Check Monthly OSHA 29 CFR 1910.37
Lamp/Bulb Replacement When defective or dimming Best practice

Note: Specific frequencies may vary based on local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) requirements, building occupancy classification, and manufacturer recommendations.

Facility Information

Emergency Exit Light Inventory

Record information for each emergency exit light and illuminated exit sign in the facility. Add rows as needed for additional devices.

ID/Tag # Location Type Manufacturer Model Installation Date Last Battery Replacement Last Bulb Replacement

Visual Inspection

Functional Testing

Battery & Power Supply Checks

Placement & Coverage Checks

Documentation & Compliance

Testing Procedures & Best Practices

Follow these structured procedures to ensure proper testing of emergency exit lights in accordance with OSHA and NFPA requirements. Always document all testing results and implement corrective actions for any deficiencies.

Monthly 30-Second Test Procedure

  • Visually inspect unit for physical damage
  • Verify normal AC power indicator is lit
  • Press and hold test button for 30 seconds
  • Verify all lamps illuminate properly
  • Check that light pattern covers intended area
  • Release test button and verify return to normal
  • Verify charging indicator illuminates
  • Document test results for each unit

Annual 90-Minute Test Procedure

  • Notify affected departments of testing
  • Ensure batteries are fully charged before test
  • Activate units by pressing test button or cutting power
  • Record start time of test
  • Check illumination levels at beginning of test
  • Inspect units at 30 minutes and 60 minutes
  • Verify units still operating after 90 minutes
  • Restore normal power and verify recharging
  • Document test results and any failures

Measuring Illumination Levels

  • Use calibrated light meter for measurements
  • Take readings along entire exit path
  • Measure at floor level along path of egress
  • Verify minimum 1 foot-candle along exit path
  • Verify minimum 0.1 foot-candle elsewhere
  • Take multiple readings in each area
  • Document lowest reading in each area
  • Adjust emergency light heads if needed

Battery Maintenance

  • Check battery manufacturer date codes
  • Replace batteries older than 4 years
  • Clean battery terminals with appropriate cleaner
  • Verify proper battery voltage under load
  • Ensure battery connections are secure
  • Check for signs of corrosion or leakage
  • Replace any damaged or leaking batteries
  • Dispose of old batteries properly per regulations

Inspection Progress

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Electronic Signature

Deficiencies & Action Items

Conclusion

Implementing this comprehensive Emergency Exit Light Inspection Checklist is essential for maintaining OSHA compliance and ensuring occupant safety during emergencies. By systematically inspecting and testing emergency exit lights according to regulatory requirements, facility managers can identify potential issues before they lead to failures during critical emergency situations.

For optimal emergency lighting management, consider implementing the Oxmaint APP to streamline your inspection program. The Oxmaint platform allows digital documentation of inspections, provides real-time alerts for required testing, and creates comprehensive historical records for each emergency lighting device. With the Oxmaint software, facility managers can easily track compliance with OSHA and NFPA requirements, monitor correction of identified issues, and maintain proper documentation for insurance, regulatory, and legal purposes.

Make emergency exit light inspections an integral part of your facility safety protocols with the Oxmaint software's comprehensive inspection management solution. Whether for regulatory compliance, insurance requirements, or life safety, this digital approach significantly improves inspection thoroughness and documentation while reducing administrative burden on maintenance personnel and helping prioritize safety improvements.