Why is regular maintenance of emergency lighting systems, UPS systems and emergency power supply systems so important?
Regular maintenance ensures that such systems function reliably in an emergency. It prevents breakdowns, extends the service life of the systems and, in the case of systems required by building regulations, is a prerequisite for compliance with legal requirements and insurance conditions.
What legal and regulatory requirements apply to maintenance?
The obligation to carry out maintenance arises not only from product-specific standards, but also, in the case of systems required by building regulations, from the building regulations of the federal states and the Workplace Ordinance (ArbStättV).
How often must emergency lighting systems be inspected and maintained?
- Daily: Check operating indicators and control lights.
- Weekly: Functional test of the emergency lighting, including safety signs; documentation in the inspection logbook - goal = ensure the system is generally operational
- Monthly: Functional test with switchover (simulation of power failure); check that all lights switch on, including a visual inspection for damage and a check of the escape route markings. For central battery systems, also check the monitoring equipment. Documentation in the inspection book
- Annually: Complete and comprehensive inspection of all components, including a load test over the rated operating duration. Documentation in the inspection book and preparation of a maintenance report.
- Every 3 years: Measurement of the illuminance of the emergency lighting in according to DIN EN 1838, including documentation. dee
How often must emergency generators (emergency power systems) be inspected and maintained?
- Monthly: One-hour functional test with at least 50 % of the generator’s rated output, documentation
- Annually: Maintenance and inspection of all components (engine, generator, intake/exhaust system, fuel systems, cooling system and control technology), including replacement/renewal of consumable components, such as oil or filters. Documentation.
What includes maintenance of emergency power systems (e.g. diesel generators)?
- Visual inspection and functional check of all components
- Inspection of the fuel system, oil level and coolant
- Carrying out documented load tests (trial runs)
- Inspection of electrical switchgear and protective devices
- Inspection of automatic transfer switches
- Maintenance and testing of starter batteries
- Preparation of a maintenance report and confirmation of operational readiness.
What does the maintenance of a UPS system involve, for example?
- Visual inspection for damage, corrosion and safety defects
- Battery testing: measurement of voltage, acid levels, charge retention and capacity
- Checking system functions, analysis of the fault log
- Inspection and cleaning of ventilation and cooling ducts
- Testing of switchover times and the emergency power supply under load
- Documentation of all test results and maintenance work in a maintenance log
Who is authorised to carry out maintenance on UPS and emergency power systems?
Maintenance must be carried out by ‘competent persons’, i.e. qualified specialist staff with specific expertise in UPS and emergency power systems. Operators are responsible for commissioning the work and ensuring comprehensive documentation of all measures.
Who is authorised to carry out maintenance on emergency lighting systems?
Maintenance of emergency lighting systems must be carried out by a “specialist in emergency lighting systems”.
What happens if defects are identified during maintenance?
Any major defects identified are documented and must be rectified promptly to ensure the system remains operational. This includes, for example, replacing faulty batteries, repairing control systems or rectifying corrosion damage.
Minor defects are rectified immediately where possible.
How is maintenance work documented?
All inspections and maintenance tasks are documented in a maintenance log and, in some cases, in an inspection logbook. This includes:
- Date, time, scope and results of the inspections
- Details of any repairs or replacements carried out
- Names and signatures of the persons responsible.
How does PERMALUX support your company with maintenance and service?
PERMALUX supports you throughout the entire lifecycle of your system(s) with:
- One-off maintenance assignments
- Maintenance contracts with regular inspection intervals
- Support and assistance with the prescribed expert inspections
- Call-outs to rectify faults and defects
Who is responsible for the installation of emergency lighting systems?
Installation must be carried out exclusively by qualified specialist contractors who are familiar with the applicable standards (e.g. DIN EN 1838, DIN VDE 0100-560/0108) and the specific requirements of the building in question. Professional installation is a prerequisite for operational safety and subsequent approval by the authorities.
What steps does professional installation involve, for example?
- Installation of the power supply (e.g. central battery, individual battery, emergency power supply)
- Mounting of luminaires and signs at the specified positions and heights
- Carrying out the initial inspection and documenting all relevant measurement values and settings
Installation and commissioning are based on the prior planning and lighting design of the emergency lighting system in accordance with DIN EN 1838 and ASR A2.3, as well as on the selection of suitable luminaires and safety signs.
What happens in the event of structural alterations or changes of use in connection with an existing emergency lighting system?
In the event of structural alterations, changes to escape routes or changes of use, the emergency lighting system must be inspected and, if necessary, adapted. This applies to both the positioning and, where applicable, the type of luminaires, as well as the duration of the backup time.
How does PERMALUX support your company in complying with all requirements?
PERMALUX offers:
- Professional planning, installation and commissioning
- Maintenance contracts with regular inspection intervals
- Support with official approvals and inspections
- Training for operating personnel
- Rapid fault rectification and spare parts service
