Emergency Lighting Annual Maintenance
Location: University College London Hospital, Euston Road
Background
Alpine Works Limited has been proudly managing the emergency lighting systems for the University College London Hospital (UCLH) Elizabeth Garrett Anderson (EGA) Wing and Tower. This project has involved the ongoing maintenance of 26 Dali Data Routers and 1,150 emergency lights in the EGA Wing, along with 40 Dali Data Routers and 2,973 emergency lights in the Tower, all of which are fitted with automatic testing systems.
Our involvement with UCLH dates back to 2018, when we installed a new backbone infrastructure for their emergency lighting systems. The hospital’s existing system was rapidly becoming obsolete. Alpine Works stepped in to replace it with a modern Whitecroft COMEPs system, preparing the site for the transition to new LED lighting. This upgrade significantly improved the reliability and functionality of the emergency lighting, ensuring a robust foundation for future expansions and upgrades.
Following this successful installation, we continue to provide comprehensive annual maintenance, which includes 11 monthly visits and 1 annual service visit from March through February each year. During each visit, our team performs planned preventative maintenance tasks to ensure the systems remain fully operational and compliant with safety regulations.
Key tasks involve performing functional tests through the auto-test systems, which are programmed to run monthly checks. These tests are designed to ensure all lighting operates correctly.
As part of our work, we review the emergency lighting system components for damage, discolouration, or cleanliness, ensuring that all luminaires are suitable for the environment. We also assess escape routes to confirm they remain clear and well-lit, addressing any obstructions that could impact safety during an emergency. Any issues identified are logged, and remedial work orders are promptly generated to rectify the faults.
Our team works closely with UCLH to ensure compliance with their health and safety policies, including asbestos management and safety rules for contractors. We also maintain detailed records of all tests and updates in the building logbooks. Should any components require repair or replacement, we take immediate action to ensure safety until the system is restored, in consultation with the building managers.
Through this meticulous maintenance process, we ensure that the emergency lighting systems at UCLH’s EGA Wing and Tower remain fully operational, contributing to the safety of both staff and patients.