A compliance guide for facility managers and business owners, with insight from Eric Gandler

Emergency lighting isn’t just a safety feature—it’s a legal requirement for commercial buildings in New York State. From office buildings and retail spaces to warehouses, schools, restaurants, and medical facilities, emergency lighting plays a critical role during power outages, fires, and other emergencies.

Unfortunately, emergency lighting is also one of the most common causes of failed inspections. To help businesses stay compliant and prepared, Eric Gandler, a trusted commercial electrician serving Clifton Park and the Capital Region, explains New York’s emergency lighting requirements, testing procedures, common failures, and modern upgrade options.

⚡ Why Emergency Lighting Matters

Emergency lighting ensures that occupants can safely exit a building when normal power is lost. It reduces panic, prevents injuries, and supports first responders during emergencies.

In New York, failure to maintain proper emergency lighting can result in:

  • Failed fire or safety inspections

  • Fines or violations

  • Forced shutdowns

  • Increased liability in the event of injury

  • Insurance complications

Compliance isn’t optional—it’s a critical part of operating a commercial property.

📜 Emergency Lighting Code Requirements in New York

New York State follows the National Electrical Code (NEC) and NFPA Life Safety Code, with enforcement handled by local authorities and fire marshals.

Emergency lighting is required in:

  • Exit access corridors

  • Stairwells

  • Exit discharge areas

  • Assembly spaces

  • Mechanical and electrical rooms

  • Parking garages

  • Any area where loss of lighting could create danger

Key code requirements include:

  • Emergency lighting must activate automatically upon power loss

  • Illumination must last a minimum of 90 minutes

  • Lighting must provide sufficient illumination for safe egress

  • Emergency lights must remain operational even if normal lighting fails

These requirements apply to both new construction and existing commercial buildings.

🧪 Required Testing and Maintenance Procedures

Emergency lighting systems must be tested regularly to ensure reliability.

Standard testing requirements:

  • Monthly test:

    • Brief activation to confirm lights turn on

  • Annual test:

    • Full 90-minute power loss simulation

    • Confirms battery capacity and fixture reliability

Documentation matters

Facility managers should maintain written or digital records showing:

  • Test dates

  • Duration of tests

  • Any repairs or replacements performed

Lack of documentation can result in failed inspections—even if the lights appear to work.

⚠️ Common Emergency Lighting Failures

Many Clifton Park businesses fail emergency lighting inspections for avoidable reasons.

Most common issues include:

  • Dead or failing batteries

  • Fixtures that no longer illuminate

  • Burned-out lamps

  • Emergency lights painted over or blocked

  • Exit signs not illuminated

  • Incompatible LED retrofits

  • Systems never tested

Eric Gandler frequently finds emergency lights that haven’t been tested in years—even in buildings that recently passed other inspections.

🔄 Upgrade Options for Commercial Emergency Lighting

Modern emergency lighting systems are more reliable, efficient, and easier to maintain than older models.

Popular upgrade options include:

  • LED emergency fixtures

    • Longer lifespan

    • Lower maintenance

    • Brighter, more consistent illumination

  • Self-testing emergency lights

    • Automatically perform monthly and annual tests

    • Provide visual indicators of failure

  • Central battery systems

    • Ideal for large facilities

    • Simplified maintenance and monitoring

  • Exit sign upgrades

    • LED exit signs with battery backup

    • Clear visibility and reduced energy usage

Upgrading outdated systems improves safety and reduces long-term maintenance costs.

🏢 Who Is Responsible for Compliance?

In most cases, responsibility falls on:

  • Building owners

  • Property managers

  • Facility managers

  • Business owners (depending on lease terms)

Even if maintenance is outsourced, compliance responsibility remains with the property.

🔧 How Eric Gandler Helps Clifton Park Businesses Stay Compliant

Local businesses rely on Eric Gandler for emergency lighting compliance services, including:

  • Emergency lighting inspections

  • Code compliance audits

  • Battery and fixture replacement

  • Exit sign upgrades

  • Self-testing system installation

  • Documentation support for inspections

  • Corrections after failed fire marshal inspections

His knowledge of New York codes and local Clifton Park enforcement standards helps businesses avoid violations and maintain uninterrupted operations.

✅ Final Thoughts

Emergency lighting isn’t something to “set and forget.” Without regular testing and proper maintenance, systems can fail when they’re needed most—putting people and businesses at risk.

For Clifton Park commercial properties, working with an experienced electrician like Eric Gandler ensures emergency lighting systems remain compliant, functional, and inspection-ready year-round.