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Friday, October 23, 2020
Question:
Thanks for this NEC Forum. Are emergency lights required to be tested before the AHJ issues final approvals? I have a small store with battery-powered emergency lights in the front and back of the store and a battery backup exit light at each of the exits. The inspector wants an inspection to test their operation. Isn't this a requirement of the local fire department? Any input would be helpful.
Tim Owens
A
Answer:
Hi Tim, thanks for the question. The NEC does address this in Section 700.3(A), which requires the AHJ to conduct or witness the emergency system upon installation and periodically afterward. In the case of unit equipment, most inspectors want to verify correct wiring and simulate an interruption of normal power to verify the emergency lighting and egress paths illuminated. As far as being a requirement of the local fire department, this may be the case in many areas, but the NEC does specifically address this.