IS 3217 Emergency Lighting Assessments
IS 3217:2023 Compliant - BEng Fire Engineers - Independent Assessments - PI Insured - Nationwide Service
Need an Emergency Lighting Assessment?
Contact Phoenix STS for an independent IS 3217:2023 emergency lighting assessment. BEng-qualified fire engineers, PI insured, nationwide service.
Emergency Lighting Assessments Under IS 3217:2023
Emergency lighting is one of the most important fire safety systems in any building. When normal lighting fails during an emergency, occupants depend on emergency luminaires to illuminate escape routes and guide them to safety. In Ireland, the design, installation, and maintenance of emergency lighting systems is governed by IS 3217:2023, the current edition of the Irish Standard for emergency lighting. This standard replaced IS 3217:2013 and introduces updated requirements for luminaire positioning, testing regimes, and record keeping.
A compliance assessment under IS 3217:2023 involves a systematic review of every element of your emergency lighting system. This includes verifying that escape routes are adequately illuminated, that luminaires are positioned at the correct locations, that battery duration meets the required minimum, and that testing and maintenance records are being kept in accordance with the standard. The assessment also checks that the system design accounts for all categories of emergency lighting relevant to the building, including escape route lighting, anti-panic lighting, and high risk task area lighting where applicable.
Emergency lighting sits within the broader context of fire safety in Irish buildings. Technical Guidance Document B (TGD B) 2024 - specifically Section 1.4 on means of escape lighting - sets out the building regulation requirements for emergency lighting on escape routes. The Fire Services Acts 1981 and 2003 place a duty on persons in control of premises to provide adequate means of escape, which includes ensuring that escape routes can be used safely when normal lighting is unavailable. A properly designed and maintained emergency lighting system is fundamental to meeting these obligations.
Phoenix STS provides independent IS 3217:2023 emergency lighting assessments for buildings of all types across Ireland. Our assessments are carried out by BEng-qualified fire engineers who understand both the technical requirements of the standard and the wider fire safety context. We do not install or maintain emergency lighting systems, which means our assessments are fully independent and free from commercial bias. Find out more about our fire safety consultancy services.
Why You Need an Emergency Lighting Assessment
Protecting occupants and meeting your legal obligations.
Legal Compliance
The Fire Services Acts 1981 and 2003 require persons in control of premises to provide adequate means of escape. Functioning emergency lighting on escape routes is an essential part of meeting this duty.
Life Safety
Emergency lighting guides building occupants along escape routes when normal lighting fails. Without adequate emergency lighting, occupants may be unable to find exits during a fire or power failure.
HIQA Requirements
HIQA Regulation 28 requires adequate fire precautions in designated centres, including functioning emergency lighting. HIQA inspectors routinely check emergency lighting during inspections of nursing homes and disability services.
Insurance Compliance
Insurers expect fire safety systems to be maintained to current standards. Evidence of IS 3217:2023 compliant emergency lighting supports insurance applications and may influence policy terms.
Building Regulations
TGD B 2024 mandates emergency lighting on escape routes in new and refurbished buildings. An assessment confirms that the installed system meets the design intent and regulatory requirements.
Staff Confidence
Regular testing and independent assessment of emergency lighting gives building managers and staff confidence that the system will perform when it matters most. This is particularly important in healthcare and residential settings.
What We Assess
A detailed review of every element of your emergency lighting system.
Escape Route Lighting
Verification that all escape routes have adequate illuminance levels. IS 3217:2023 requires a minimum of 1 lux at floor level along the centre line of defined escape routes, with a uniformity ratio not exceeding 40:1.
Anti-Panic Lighting
Assessment of open areas exceeding 60 square metres to confirm that anti-panic lighting is provided. These areas require a minimum of 0.5 lux at floor level to prevent panic and allow occupants to reach escape routes safely.
High Risk Task Area Lighting
Evaluation of areas where dangerous processes or machinery must be shut down safely before evacuation. High risk task area lighting ensures operators can see to carry out shutdown procedures without endangering themselves or others.
Luminaire Positioning
Review of luminaire locations to confirm compliance with IS 3217:2023 requirements. This includes positioning near each exit door, at changes of direction, at each staircase, at mandatory fire safety signs, near firefighting equipment, and at changes of floor level.
Duration and Battery Testing
Verification that emergency luminaires achieve the required duration of operation on battery power. Most buildings in Ireland require a minimum 3-hour duration. We review battery condition, test records, and observe functional testing where possible.
Escape Route Lighting
Verification that all escape routes have adequate illuminance levels. IS 3217:2023 requires a minimum of 1 lux at floor level along the centre line of defined escape routes, with a uniformity ratio not exceeding 40:1.
Anti-Panic Lighting
Assessment of open areas exceeding 60 square metres to confirm that anti-panic lighting is provided. These areas require a minimum of 0.5 lux at floor level to prevent panic and allow occupants to reach escape routes safely.
High Risk Task Area Lighting
Evaluation of areas where dangerous processes or machinery must be shut down safely before evacuation. High risk task area lighting ensures operators can see to carry out shutdown procedures without endangering themselves or others.
Luminaire Positioning
Review of luminaire locations to confirm compliance with IS 3217:2023 requirements. This includes positioning near each exit door, at changes of direction, at each staircase, at mandatory fire safety signs, near firefighting equipment, and at changes of floor level.
Duration and Battery Testing
Verification that emergency luminaires achieve the required duration of operation on battery power. Most buildings in Ireland require a minimum 3-hour duration. We review battery condition, test records, and observe functional testing where possible.
Understanding IS 3217:2023 Requirements
IS 3217:2023 defines four categories of emergency lighting, each serving a different purpose within the building. Escape route lighting illuminates defined escape routes so that occupants can safely navigate to exits. Anti-panic lighting covers large open areas exceeding 60 square metres, reducing the risk of panic and helping occupants identify the direction of escape routes. High risk task area lighting ensures that persons involved in potentially dangerous processes can shut down safely before evacuating. Standby lighting, while not strictly a life safety system, provides a level of illumination that allows normal activities to continue during a mains failure.
A key distinction within emergency lighting systems is between maintained and non-maintained luminaires. Maintained emergency luminaires are illuminated at all times, operating from the mains supply under normal conditions and switching automatically to battery power when the mains fails. Non-maintained luminaires remain off during normal conditions and only activate when the mains supply is interrupted. The choice between maintained and non-maintained depends on the building type, its use, and the specific requirements of the area being served. Sleeping accommodation, for example, typically requires maintained emergency lighting so that escape routes are lit even if an occupant is unfamiliar with the building layout.
IS 3217:2023 specifies illuminance levels that must be achieved on battery power. Escape routes require a minimum of 1 lux at floor level along the centre line, with a uniformity ratio not greater than 40:1 to avoid excessive variation between bright and dark areas. Anti-panic areas require 0.5 lux at floor level. These levels must be achieved within 5 seconds of mains failure for escape route lighting, and within 60 seconds for anti-panic and high risk task area lighting. The minimum duration of operation on battery power is 3 hours for most building types in Ireland.
The standard requires two levels of testing. Monthly functional tests involve a brief operation of each luminaire on battery power to confirm that the lamp illuminates and the indicator light shows correct charging. Annual full-duration tests require the system to operate on battery power for its full rated duration - typically 3 hours - to verify that batteries are in good condition and that illuminance levels are maintained throughout the test period. All test results must be recorded in a log book that is available for inspection. Properly maintained records are essential for demonstrating compliance during fire authority inspections and insurance reviews.
If your building also has a fire detection and alarm system, we offer IS 3218 fire alarm audits as a related service. Many clients find it practical to schedule both assessments together.
Sectors We Serve
Emergency lighting assessments tailored to your sector and regulatory requirements.
Nursing Homes
HIQA Regulation 28 requires adequate fire precautions including functioning emergency lighting. Our assessments support compliance with HIQA standards and fire authority expectations for residential care settings.
Hospitals
Complex escape routes, critical care areas, and high occupancy levels make emergency lighting particularly important in hospital settings. We assess systems against IS 3217:2023 and healthcare-specific requirements.
Hotels and Guesthouses
Hotels accommodate guests who are unfamiliar with the building layout and may be sleeping when an emergency occurs. Maintained emergency lighting on all escape routes is essential in these premises.
Schools and Creches
Premises with vulnerable occupants require reliable emergency lighting systems. Schools and creches must also satisfy Tusla registration requirements, which include fire safety provisions.
Commercial Offices
Employers have a duty under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 to maintain a safe workplace. Emergency lighting on escape routes is a fundamental part of workplace fire safety.
Retail and Hospitality
Public-facing premises with high footfall and visitors unfamiliar with the layout need reliable emergency lighting to guide occupants safely to exits during an emergency.
Our Assessment Process
From initial review through to follow-up support after remediation.
Initial Review
We review your existing emergency lighting documentation, including design certificates, commissioning records, test log books, and any previous assessment reports. This helps us understand your system before arriving on site.
On-Site Assessment
A detailed on-site inspection of every emergency luminaire in the building, checked against IS 3217:2023 requirements. We verify luminaire positions, check condition, review signage, and assess coverage of escape routes and open areas.
Testing Verification
We review your test records to verify that monthly functional tests and annual full-duration tests are being carried out correctly and documented. Where possible, we observe functional testing during the assessment.
Report and Recommendations
A written report detailing our findings, with each non-compliance identified, photographed, and categorised. Recommendations are prioritised and include a realistic remediation timeline to help you plan corrective works.
Follow-Up Support
We provide ongoing advice during the remediation process and can carry out a re-assessment once works are complete to confirm that all findings have been addressed satisfactorily.
Initial Review
We review your existing emergency lighting documentation, including design certificates, commissioning records, test log books, and any previous assessment reports. This helps us understand your system before arriving on site.
On-Site Assessment
A detailed on-site inspection of every emergency luminaire in the building, checked against IS 3217:2023 requirements. We verify luminaire positions, check condition, review signage, and assess coverage of escape routes and open areas.
Testing Verification
We review your test records to verify that monthly functional tests and annual full-duration tests are being carried out correctly and documented. Where possible, we observe functional testing during the assessment.
Report and Recommendations
A written report detailing our findings, with each non-compliance identified, photographed, and categorised. Recommendations are prioritised and include a realistic remediation timeline to help you plan corrective works.
Follow-Up Support
We provide ongoing advice during the remediation process and can carry out a re-assessment once works are complete to confirm that all findings have been addressed satisfactorily.
The Legal Framework for Emergency Lighting in Ireland
Fire Services Acts 1981 and 2003
The Fire Services Act 1981 and Fire Services Act 2003 place a duty on persons having control of premises to take all reasonable measures to guard against the outbreak of fire and to ensure the safety of persons on the premises. This includes providing adequate means of escape, which must be usable at all times - including during a power failure. Emergency lighting on escape routes is a fundamental element of meeting this duty. Fire authorities have the power to issue fire safety notices and prosecute where these obligations are not met.
Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005
The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 requires employers to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the safety, health and welfare of employees at work. This includes maintaining safe means of access and egress. Emergency lighting forms part of the employer's duty to provide and maintain a safe workplace. The Act also requires employers to carry out risk assessments and prepare safety statements that address emergency procedures, including the provision of emergency lighting.
Building Control Regulations and TGD B 2024
The Building Regulations set minimum standards for the design and construction of buildings. Technical Guidance Document B (TGD B) 2024 - Part B1 deals with means of escape, and Section 1.4 specifically addresses escape lighting requirements. For new buildings and material alterations, the emergency lighting design must comply with TGD B at the time of construction. An IS 3217:2023 assessment verifies that the installed system continues to meet these requirements throughout the building's life.
Health Act 2007 and HIQA Standards
The Health Act 2007 established HIQA as the regulatory body for healthcare settings. HIQA's National Standards for Residential Care Settings and the associated regulations - particularly Regulation 28 (Fire Precautions) - require that designated centres have adequate fire safety measures, including functioning emergency lighting. HIQA inspectors routinely check emergency lighting during registration and monitoring inspections. Non-compliance can result in conditions being attached to registration or, in serious cases, enforcement action.
Penalties and Enforcement
Non-compliance with fire safety legislation carries significant consequences. Under the Fire Services Acts, offences can result in fines and imprisonment on summary conviction. Fire authorities have powers to issue fire safety notices requiring specific remedial works, and closure notices where there is a serious risk to life. Insurers may also reduce or refuse claims where fire safety systems are not maintained to the required standard. Regular independent assessments provide documented evidence that your emergency lighting system is being properly maintained and monitored.
For a broader review of fire safety in your building, consider our fire risk assessment service, which evaluates all fire safety measures including emergency lighting, fire detection, means of escape, and fire safety management.
Why Choose Phoenix STS
Independent expertise from qualified fire engineers.
BEng Fire Engineering
Our emergency lighting assessments are carried out by university-qualified fire engineers with degree-level understanding of fire safety systems, building design, and escape route planning.
IS 3217:2023 Expertise
Our assessors are fully trained on the current edition of IS 3217 and its requirements for emergency lighting design, installation, commissioning, testing, and maintenance.
Independence
Phoenix STS does not install or maintain emergency lighting systems. Our assessments are free from any commercial interest in selling equipment or maintenance contracts.
ISO 9001 Certified
Our quality management system is certified to ISO 9001:2015, ensuring that every assessment follows a consistent methodology and meets defined quality standards.
PI Insured
All assessment services are covered by professional indemnity insurance, providing your organisation with protection and confidence in our work.
Nationwide Coverage
We carry out on-site emergency lighting assessments across all 26 counties in Ireland. Based in Longford, we have easy access to every region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Content last reviewed: March 2026. Updated to reflect IS 3217:2023.
IS 3217:2023 is the Irish Standard for emergency lighting in buildings. It replaced IS 3217:2013 and sets out requirements for the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of emergency lighting systems. The standard is published by the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) and is widely referenced in Irish building regulations and fire safety guidance.
IS 3217:2023 requires monthly functional tests and annual full-duration tests. Monthly functional tests involve briefly operating each luminaire on battery power to confirm correct operation. Annual full-duration tests require the system to operate on battery power for its full rated duration - typically 3 hours - to verify battery condition and sustained illuminance levels.
Maintained emergency luminaires are illuminated at all times, powered by the mains supply under normal conditions and switching to battery power on mains failure. Non-maintained luminaires are off during normal conditions and only activate when the mains supply fails. The choice depends on the building type, occupancy, and risk assessment. Sleeping accommodation and entertainment venues typically require maintained emergency lighting.
IS 3217:2023 requires a minimum of 1 lux at floor level along the centre line of defined escape routes, with a uniformity ratio not exceeding 40:1. This level must be achieved within 5 seconds of mains failure. For anti-panic areas exceeding 60 square metres, the minimum is 0.5 lux at floor level.
Not necessarily. Emergency lighting is required on all defined escape routes, in open areas exceeding 60 square metres, in high risk task areas, at changes of direction, near mandatory fire safety signs, near firefighting equipment, at each staircase, and at changes of floor level. Your fire risk assessment and building design will determine the specific locations required.
An emergency lighting assessment should be carried out by a competent person with knowledge of IS 3217:2023 and fire safety engineering principles. Phoenix STS assessments are carried out by BEng-qualified fire engineers who understand both the technical requirements of the standard and the wider fire safety context of your building.
We provide a prioritised written report identifying each non-compliance with clear recommendations for remediation. Findings are categorised so that you can address the most critical items first. We can advise on solutions and review contractor proposals, but we do not carry out installation or maintenance work. This maintains our independence and ensures unbiased advice.
The duration depends on the size and complexity of your building and the number of emergency luminaires installed. A typical nursing home assessment takes one day on site. The written report is delivered within 5 working days of the site visit. Larger or more complex buildings may require additional time, which we will confirm during the planning stage.
Yes. HIQA Regulation 28 requires that designated centres have adequate fire precautions, which includes functioning emergency lighting that is properly tested and maintained. HIQA inspectors routinely check emergency lighting during registration and monitoring inspections of nursing homes and disability services. Non-compliance can result in conditions on registration.
Yes. Emergency lighting is one of the fire safety systems reviewed during a PAS 79-1:2020 fire risk assessment. We can carry out a standalone IS 3217:2023 emergency lighting assessment or include it as part of a wider fire safety review. Many clients find it efficient to schedule emergency lighting and fire alarm assessments together.
Emergency Lighting Assessments Across Ireland
Phoenix STS provides IS 3217:2023 emergency lighting assessments for buildings of all types across Ireland. From our base in Longford, we serve clients in every county, with regular work in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, and all regions nationwide. Whether you operate a single premises or manage a portfolio of buildings across multiple locations, we can schedule assessments to suit your requirements and minimise disruption to your operations.
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Book Your Emergency Lighting Assessment
Independent IS 3217:2023 emergency lighting assessments by BEng-qualified fire engineers. Professional indemnity insured. ISO 9001 certified. Nationwide across Ireland.