5 Signs Your Emergency Exit Lights Are Failing

In an emergency, your exit lights are the only thing guiding your staff and customers to safety. But like any battery-powered device, they don’t last forever.

Under Australian Standard AS 2293, all emergency evacuation lighting must be inspected every 6 months. But you don’t have to wait for a technician to spot a problem.

Here are the 5 most common signs that your emergency lights are failing and need immediate attention.

1. The “Blackened Tube”

Look closely at your fluorescent exit box. are the ends of the tube turning grey or black? This is a tell-tale sign that the fluorescent tube is nearing the end of its life. While it might still be lit, it is likely to flicker or fail completely in the next few weeks.

2. The Fading “Running Man”

Emergency Exit signs must be Green and White for high visibility. Over time, heat and UV light can fade the green decal to a pale yellow or white. If the “Running Man” symbol isn’t crisp and high-contrast, it may not be visible through smoke during a fire. This is a compliance fail.

3. The 90-Minute Fail (The Invisible Fault)

This is the most dangerous fault because you can’t see it. All emergency lights contain a battery backup. When the power cuts, the battery must keep the light on for 90 minutes to allow for safe evacuation. During our 6-monthly discharge test, we simulate a blackout. If the light dies after 10, 30, or even 80 minutes, it fails. This usually means the battery needs replacing.

4. Buzzing or Humming Noises

A healthy exit light should be silent. If you hear a loud buzzing or humming sound coming from the unit, it usually indicates a failing transformer or ballast. This can generate excess heat and even become a fire risk itself.

5. The Charge Light is OFF

Every emergency light has a tiny red or green LED indicator (the “Charge Light”). This tells you the battery is charging from the mains power.

• Light ON: Good.
• Light OFF: Bad. The battery is disconnected, flat, or the circuit has blown.

Don’t Wait for a Blackout

If you spot any of these signs in your Geelong or Melbourne building, don’t wait for your scheduled service. Contact Safety First Test and Tag immediately. We carry spare batteries, tubes, and decals to fix these issues on the spot.

Call 1300 710 873 to book your 90-minute discharge test.