What are Different Types of Exit Signs?
There are many different types of exit signs. Some of them serve slightly different purposes, some of them the same purpose but may or may not be in compliance depending on the location of your building.
Understanding the different types of exit signs and where (or where not) they are appropriate for use is an important part of keeping your building up to code and offering the best fire safety practices.
Exit Sign Technology
When it comes to how exit signs are powered there are a handful of popular options. Photoluminescent exit signs (also called glow-in-the-dark exit signs) are increasingly becoming a popular choice because they offer a non-electrical, eco, and budget-friendly option. LED is also a commonly used technology for exit signs.
No matter what technology you choose for your exit signs, you will want to make sure they meet local code requirements. You will also need to make sure they align with the regulations by authorities like OSHA, and NFPA. Failure to do so will not only result in possible fines but also
puts lives in danger.
Types of Exit Signs
There are numerous types of exit signs, specialty signs, basic emergency exit signs, and more. Do you need all these different styles of exit signs? Probably not. But it is nice to know your options and make sure you are offering the clearest, easiest to understand emergency exit signage in your building.
Running Man Exit Sign
Many countries have made the official switch to the running man exit sign. Australia and Canada now require the running man exit sign in buildings. While the NFPA hasn’t made any plans to replace the American “EXIT” sign, many buildings are opting to put in the running man exit sign.
If you are considering changing over to the running man exit sign, you will want to make sure they meet certain criteria. Jessup Manufacturing’s Glo Brite® running man exit signs are UL 924 listed and create clear, brightly glowing signage. And if you are in Canada make sure your signs are CAN/ULC S572 listed.
Exit Sign with Arrow
While the running man is a great example of what a picture can demonstrate, so is the exit sign with an arrow. Having an exit sign with an arrow immediately tells people what direction to go to the nearest exit.
You will want to make sure what exit sign with an arrow you choose for your building meets NFPA Life Safety Code requirements and that the words EXIT are at minimum si inches high (larger in some locations).
Green Exit Sign
Many say that the green exit sign is even more understandable than the ever-popular red exit sign. OSHA and NFPA both comment that as long as the sign is a distinctive color that is readily visible and contrasting with its background it is acceptable. Ultimately, if you want to go with the green exit sign you will also need to check with your local jurisdictions to make sure they allow it.
Exit Sign Experts
Jessup Manufacturing is a trusted expert in emergency exit and fire safety signage. Contact our team to discuss your emergency exit questions and requirements.
Features You Need in Clear Grip Tape for Your Skateboard
When it comes to skateboarding you need a few essential parts. Having a solid skateboard grip tape is one of them. Lately, a lot of boarders have taken to clear grip tape and you might be wondering if there is a big difference and if it’s right for you.
With so many grip tape options on the market, the bottom line is you just need to choose one that works for you. When it comes to clear grip tape you’ll want to look at a few different features to make sure you pick the best one to keep you safe on your board and your shoes not going to shreds.
Features of Clear Grip Tape
Stickiness
Without stickiness, you’re not going to be able to hit those tricks. Professional riders look for stickiness in their grip tape, although sometimes it won’t be the best for your shoes. Jessup Griptape has actually received numerous comments from users that it poses less of a threat to your shoes while still providing the traction required for trick riding.
Comfortable Using / Bubble Proof
Sounds strange, but some grip tapes just aren’t that comfortable. You want a clear grip tape for your skateboard that you won’t have to alter regularly. Moving the grip tape can increase the likelihood of bubbles which can make it look poor and work less effectively on your board. Be sure to look for a clear grip tape that offers a bubble proof application you won’t need to mess with.
Prices:
Clear grip tapes for skateboards usually range from 5 dollars to 25 dollars depending on the quality and amount being purchased. If you are looking to do strong turns and elite style tricks make sure you choose a clear grip tape for your skateboard that is quality (meaning you might need to fork over more than $5).
Pro Tips on Clear Grip Tape for Skateboards
A lot of comments are floating around the Internet about clear grip tape. Many boarders mention that clear grip tape is awesome because it shows your boards design, but fails because it ultimately gets dirty super quick.
We’ve remedied that concern by providing a quick and easy fail-proof way to keep your board clean. Check it out the post here (link to How to Clean Clear Grip Tape post).
When you start noticing your feet are failing to stay put on the board and just not sticking the way they used to, then it’s not just dirty grip tape but old grip tape. There is no specific time frame for how long your grip tape will last, it really depends on how much you board and how many tricks and turns you’re using your board to do.
Remove old clear grip tape on your skateboard with a hairdryer. It will easily peel off. Then just clean the board and you’re ready for a new grip tape application.
Happy Skateboarding
Whatever grip tape you choose, make sure it is right for you. No two boards are alike and no two grip tapes are alike. We love clear grip tape for skateboards because it shows off your board’s design, provides that ideal stickiness, and our formulation won’t tear up your shoes from that start.
Shop all of our skateboard grip tapes today and find the one that’s right for you.
How to Clean Clear Grip Tape
Jessup’s Clear Grip Tape has tons of pros. Let you showcase your board’s design, offer solid bonding without air bubbles, and won’t tear up your shoes like other brands on the market to name a few.
However, the number one con against clear grip tape is that it shows dirt easily. There may be times when you step into dirt or mud and unknowingly get on your board, transferring the mess. These substances not only make your grip tape less grippy but if you have clear grip tape it shows whatever is transferred more prominently.
Luckily, cleaning a board that has clear grip tape applied is quick and easy. It also won’t take away from the support and stick of the tape, so no need to worry about doing it often.
What Not To Do When Cleaning Grip Tape
A lot of blogs and videos are out there showing how to clean board grip tape. Some great, some not so great. One of the most common methods we’ve seen lately is promoting cleaning with Windex and scrubbing with an old toothbrush.
This is not the best way to clean skateboard grip tape. Window cleanings like Windex contain something called solvents. Solvents can actually lessen the grip of the griptape- basically, it is affecting and breaking down the resin that holds it together.
Many grip tapes are perforated- meaning they have tiny holes through the sheet. This is great because it helps prevent air bubbles. It also means that the window cleaner can soak through, getting into the wood. In doing this you could unknowingly be ruining the board itself and/or the adhesion of the grip tape.
Also, think of the toothbrush bristles. They are not strong enough to truly clean the grip tape.
So what is another -better- way to clean that clear grip tape?
The Best Way to Clean Clear Grip Tape
Two words- natural rubber. Natural what you might be saying?! Many skateboarders out there trust it, and you can find it in a few places these days- including skate shops and on Amazon.
You’ll also want a few other supplies on hand to really get a good clean. Grab a soft wire brush (brass or steel wire brush), a little cup of water, a rag, and a hairdryer.
Steps to Clean Skateboard Grip Tape
It just takes a few simple steps to clean skateboard grip tape. With the right tools, you can complete the job in a matter of 5 minutes or less.
- Start by rubbing the natural rubber back and forth on the board. This process will remove the surface debris, mainly dust. It is a good prep for getting ready to deep clean.
- To remove the stubborn stuff grab your soft wire brush. A soft wire brush is a lot stronger than a toothbrush, but still gentle enough to not upset the integrity of the board or grip tape. Use a gentle circular motion to get dirt from deep down to come to the surface.
- Use the rubber to wipe away the excess the soft wire brush has brought to the surface.
PRO TIP: If you have some really set-in dirt and mud, use a small amount of water on your wire brush. Then use a rag to soak up excess water and a hairdryer to dry the grip tape completely before using the rubber to wipe away the excess.
Jessup Manufacturing Knows Skateboarding
We’ve been making the best grip tape since 1975, gripping over 25 million boards! While there are many ways to clean clear grip tape, this just happens to be one of our favorite techniques (right now!). Tag us in pics of your boards and tell us your top tricks to keeping your grip tape looking clean and doing its job.
Workplace Fire Safety Tips: Emergency Exit Signs and Exit Routes
With the seasons changing and many of us heading back to the office, it’s a great time to freshen up on fire safety training for the workplace. Whether you are a business owner or manager, take time out for a quick course on the important reminders of fire safety best practices for all your employees.
Emergency Exit Signs & Routes
Most workplaces are required to have at minimum two exit routes available at all times. The exit route must be clearly marked and lead to an area outside that is large enough for all building occupants to safely fit.
Marking an exit route inside the building can include several different components depending on the length of the route and location of the exit. OSHA standards also state that employers must meet the following exit route requirements:
- Exit routes are kept free of explosive or highly flammable furnishings/decor.
- Exit routes should not require travel through a high-hazard area unless the path is effectively shielded from the area.
- Exit routes need to be unobstructed by materials, locked doors, or dead-end corridors.
- Safeguards designed to protect employees during an emergency are in good working order.
- Adequate lighting for exit routes is applied.
- Emergency exit signs and other necessary signs indicate the direction of travel to the nearest exit and exit discharge if that direction is not immediately apparent.
- The line-of-sight to an emergency exit sign must be visible at all times.
- Mark doors or passages along the route that could be mistaken for an exit “Not an Exit” or with a sign identifying its use (such as “Stairwell”).
- Install “EXIT” signs per NFPA and local requirements.
- Ensure you have an emergency alarm system in good working order.
Fire Extinguishers
OSHA Section 1910.157 requires that all employers designate certain employees to use the available portable fire extinguishers. This means that all other employees in the fire area immediately evacuate upon the sounding of the fire alarm.
It is required by OSHA and the NFPA that fire extinguishers are easily visible. This means having at minimum one fire extinguisher sign so anyone can quickly and easily locate the fire extinguisher. Make sure the sign is not obstructed. Consider adding a fire extinguisher sign with an arrow if the location is not easily noticeable.
Have an Emergency Action Plan
Every business should establish an emergency action plan. Employees should be trained on this upon starting and it’s also recommended to re-connect on the topic at least once per year.
Minimal practices to include in your emergency action plan per OSHA include:
- Procedures for reporting fires and other emergencies.
- Procedures for emergency evacuation, including the type of evacuation and exit route assignments.
- Procedures for employees who stay behind to continue critical plant operations. • Procedures to account for all employees after evacuation.
- Procedures for employees performing rescue or medical duties.
- Name or job title of employees to contact for detailed plan information.
- Alarm system to alert workers.
Need Emergency Exit and Fire Safety Signs?
Our team at Jessups has been outfitting buildings for decades with their emergency exit and egress systems. We take fire safety seriously and are happy to answer your questions.
Do Fire Extinguishers Need To Have An Identifying Sign?
Does my fire extinguisher need a sign? If you own a building or business you might have Googled this question before. Maybe that is even how you ended up here. The reason being is because OSHA and The National Fire Protection Association don’t exactly give an upfront yes or no. Keep reading and we’ll break it down for you.
OSHA Fire Extinguisher Sign Requirements
While OSHA regulation 1910 goes in-depth regarding placement, use, maintenance, and training of fire extinguishers, signage is hardly mentioned. This makes is confusing for some business owners to decipher whether or not they will need fire extinguisher signage.
The Federal OSHA regulation 1910.157(c) states, “the employer shall provide portable fire extinguishers and shall mount, locate and identify them so that they are readily accessible to employees without subjecting the employees to possible injury.”
First glance might have you thinking you don’t need a fire extinguisher sign. However, the word identify in the sentence suggests otherwise. A perfect example is if the fire extinguisher is mounted to the wall and not visible up close or is blocked by shelving or machinery. Our take on that is to go ahead and get a sign (or two) and make sure the fire extinguisher can be easily found and identified.
NFPA Fire Extinguisher Sign Requirements
The National Fire Protection Association touches on the subject of extinguisher signs in a similar fashion. According to their standards, fire extinguishers that are inside cabinets must be “marked conspicuously”.
The document also goes on to say that if visual obstructions exist then “means shall be provided to indicate the extinguisher location.”
NFPA goes on to discuss what type of fire extinguisher sign is required. Signs that are used to indicate fire extinguisher locations need to be within close proximity to the extinguisher and be visible from the normal path of travel.
Local building codes tend to follow NFPA Standards. Besides the traditional fire extinguisher sign with an arrow, consider fire extinguisher floor decal signage. Both options are a great way to identify where the fire extinguisher is.
How High do Signs Need to be Mounted?
After you get your sign you might be asking where exactly it needs to be placed. The main goal is to ensure that the extinguisher can be easily identified from a distance. Meaning if shelving, machinery, or pallets are in the way you can still easily find the location of it.
Depending on your building or job site the height of your sign will vary. In certain circumstances, you might need to place your sign near the ceiling, and other times you can get away with putting it just 1-2 feet above.
The Bottom Line
Fire extinguisher signs are a must in buildings and businesses. OSHA inspectors will expect to be able to easily spot them and so will local building inspectors (who generally follow the NFPA regulations). Luckily fire extinguisher signs are fairly inexpensive and can quickly be put up.
Make sure you have good fire safety practice with fire extinguisher signs. Contact our experts to learn more about the various fire extinguisher and fire safety sign options available.
Finding the Best Emergency Exit Sign for Your Building (emergency exit sign)
If you are a commercial building owner or manager, you know that the safety of those in the building is of the utmost importance. Unfortunately, accidents still happen inside them —including fires. Having proper emergency exit signs and egress throughout your building can help people exit quickly and potentially save lives.
Choosing what emergency signage is right for your building can seem overwhelming at first. There are hundreds of choices on the market today. From various technologies like LED or photoluminescent to different signage styles and colors. We are helping you understand the terminology and options on the market to help you pick the best emergency exit signs for your building.
What to Look for in an Emergency Exit Sign
First and foremost, before you start shopping for emergency exit signs make sure you understand the national and local requirements. Whatever products you choose need to meet these standards at a minimum. Other considerations to look at include:
Technology
There are a variety of technology options on the market that are approved for commercial buildings. Some of the most popular include LED, self-luminous, and wet location exit signs.
LED Exit Signs
LED exit signs can be a good choice if you are able to hook up electricity and don’t mind running off of it. They are a much better option then the old compact fluorescent lighting (CFL) emergency exit signs many of us know. They provide much lower energy usage and a longer lifespan than CFL emergency exit signs
Self-Luminous Exit Signs
These signs are often called glow in dark exit signs, or photoluminescent emergency exit signs. They use photoluminescent technology to illuminate. Self-luminous exit signs mean absolutely no electricity is needed and provide an extended lifespan of 28+ years. With little maintenance, a low cost, and a long life span they make an excellent option if you are looking for updating your emergency exit signs.
Wet Location Exit Signs
These exit signs are specifically for locations that hit the water. You will want to consider these for pools, steam rooms, and certain outdoor locations. Wet location exit signs are constructed to be water and/or moisture resistant.
Style and Color
You will notice that not all exit signs are the same. Some come in neon red, while others in green. Some have the big word EXIT displayed, while others are using the running man exit sign with an arrow. It is important to check with your state and local fire marshal on this.
Around the world, exit signs follow the International Organization for Standardization. The running man exit sign is not objected to by the United States NFPA, they also don’t require it. When it comes to color, that is also on a state or even a city basis. The majority give you the option, but some mandate red or green letters. Be sure to always check with your local jurisdiction.
Material
Besides technology, style, and color you will also want to consider the material. Emergency exit signs are made from a variety of materials and some work better in certain places than others.
Sign materials include plastic, glass, steel, aluminum, and cast aluminum. If you are choosing an LED sign, aluminum and cast aluminum are good choices to house the lights they use. Plastic and glass emergency signs are preferred in humid or moist environments where rust and corrosion can affect the lifespan of the sign. Plastic and aluminum signs are usually the most inexpensive.
Have More Emergency Exit Sign Questions?
We are here to help! With a wide variety of options on the market paired with regulations, it can be confusing. Contact our team of experts to help you navigate the best options for your building.
Anti Slip Grip Tape for Social Distancing in the Workplace (anti slip grip tape)
Companies are taking a whole new lens to safety as they resume operations this year. While employee safety has always been critical, COVID-19 has brought it to the forefront. In addition to having hazard areas or traffic lanes marked, you now need to ensure proper social distancing is achieved.
Being able to clearly delineate everything can be complex. From aisles, walkways, and traffic changes, ensuring proper social distancing with anti-slip grip tape can be achieved. You can create a safe workplace that is still very efficient with proper marking tape applications.
How to Use Colored Anti-Slip Grip Tape
Having specific colored anti-slip grip tape to distinguish certain areas or jobs can make things run smoothly. As situations change or spaces need to be reallocated, the tape can easily be removed. Some common ways to use colored tape include:
- Yellow tape for marking off traffic lanes or workspaces
- Red tape for first aid or emergency areas
- Yellow/Black tape for marking areas for extra caution
- Black tape for materials and manufacturing spaces
Benefits of Anti-slip Grip Tape for Social Distancing
It is necessary to create a safe, socially distanced atmosphere in the workplace right now. Using anti-slip grip tape can help create this environment while keeping your operations up and running smoothly.
Flexibility
Anti-slip grip tape can easily be changed out. Perhaps traffic flows have changed, or areas need to be reconfigured. Using grip tape means you can easily remove and update the space to accommodate evolving needs. As social distancing restrictions change or your plans and process change, you can ensure grip tape creates a flexible solution.
Durability
For the foreseeable future, this will be our new normal. Ensure you apply an anti-slip grip tape that is up for the challenge. Floor markings should start peeling or come up when you don’t want them too. We designed our grip tapes to stay in place and retain their colors even in heavy traffic situations.
Efficiency
Applying floor and safety marking tapes means better efficiency on the work floor. Everyone knows where to go and what goes where. By using our color-coding system, your teams can be back up and running quickly and safely.
Slip and Fall Prevention
Beyond social distancing, anti-slip grip tape prevents workplace slip and fall accidents. Assess your workplace for areas prone to accidents and consider putting anti-slip tape in those areas for prevention.
Easy to Install and Remove
Anti-slip grip tape can quickly be added to your workplace. It can just as quickly be removed to accommodate changes. Follow these simple tips:
- Prep the floor. Clean it with a mild solution that does not contain silicone or will leave behind any residue. Make sure the surface is smooth and dry before applying the grip tape.
- Apply to the surface. Optimal adhesion is obtained when a temperature of 60-80F. Measure the space for applying your tape and make a chalk guideline to ensure a line accuracy. Proceed slowly around curve arches, using your hands is best for this application. Firmly rub down the tape to prevent lifting, a weighted roller is recommended to really adhere the tape to the surface.
- Remove the tape by peeling at the edge. It will not leave residue behind.
With these rapidly evolving situations, simple marking tape and floor signage can go a long way. From protecting workers, customers and visitors it is your duty as a business to provide a safe space. Anti-slip grip tape can help delivery critical messaging, create safe socially distanced spaces, and improve infection control practices.
Slip and Fall Safety for Your VRBO Rental
VRBO’s have quickly become a popular way to experience a getaway in 2020. Allowing for social distancing and the comforts of home, your VRBO provides a safe and fun environment. But is your vacation rental just a slip and fall away from sending guests to the emergency room?
Slip and fall accidents continuously rank within the top three reasons for injury while vacationing. Luckily, with proper (easy!) prevention measures on your part, you can make your vacation rental a safe space. Slip and fall accidents happen for a variety of reasons, but the top offenders are lack of slip resistance on surfaces, poor visibility, and lack of hand/guard rails. Consider assessing the following locations in your vacation rental. By implementing a few of our simple suggestions your VRBO will be safer for everyone.
Non Slip Treads in Kitchens
With kitchens offering the trifecta of grease, water, and spilled food they can be prime for slip and fall accidents. Pair that with preoccupied guests and it's important to protect the area before an accident happens. Non slip treads for your VRBO offer an affordable way to keep your guests safe. Follow these simple tips to ensure you choose the best non slip tread for your kitchen and it lasts long-term.
- A medium grade non-slip tread like Jessup’s Safety Track 3500 is ideal for kitchens because it can stand up to elements and heavy foot traffic.
- Put non-slip treads in front of the stove where grease and oil can commonly fly up and sink areas. If your kitchen has sharp turns or doors, you will want to put non-slip treads around those areas.
- Don’t forget bar areas. Putting a non-slip tread around the front and back of the bar is recommended.
Anti Slip Bath Mats & Grip Tape in Bathrooms
Bathrooms are the most likely suspect for a slip and fall accident to happen in your VRBO. Anti slip bath mats and grip tape are two of the best ways to prevent accidents from occurring in the bathroom. They are inexpensive and can easily be applied to problem areas in the bathroom. With many options available, you can choose ones that are even clear and inconspicuous. Consider a medium grade non-slip bath mat or tread that prevents mold and mildew. These products are comfortable for bare feet, but also stand up to shoe traffic and heavy water.
Additional Bathroom Slip and Fall Safety Tips:
- Bright lighting in the bathroom is important. Make sure you have a nightlight or motion sensing light for late night bathroom usage.
- Choose a cleaning product for floors that is NFSI-certified. These cleaning products are designed to cut through grease, but still keep floors high traction and non-slip.
Indoor and Outdoor Stairs
Stairs in VRBOs can create more accidents than your normal home stairs. Because guests aren’t completely comfortable with layouts of VRBOs, they can easily trip and fall on stairs. You may also be renting your VRBO to a person requiring additional assistance, so having your stairs protected against slip and fall accidents is important. Our top tips for indoor and outdoor stairs include:
- Both indoor and outdoor stairs should also be treated with non-slip stair treads. Use a non slip grit tape for outdoor stairs that are regularly hit with the elements. Indoor stairs should be outfitted with a vinyl non slip tread that can withstand heavy foot traffic and is comfortable on bare feet.
- Make sure handrails are securely fastened.
- Create bright lighting. Consider photoluminescent non slip strips or stair lighting that doesn’t require electricity.
VRBO Slip and Fall Safety
As an owner of a vacation rental, you have a certain level of responsibility when it comes to keeping guests safe. Accidents can and will happen, but by taking precautions you can greatly reduce the potential of them. If you need help assessing your vacation rental for slip and fall safety or questions on what products are suitable for bathrooms, restaurants, or outdoor areas please contact a Jessup representative.
Finding the Best Non Slip Bath Mat for You (Best non slip bath mat)
Your home is a safe place. Unfortunately, slip and fall accidents still happen inside them. The majority of these accidents right in the bathroom. Often times you’ll get lucky with a bump or bruise, but bathroom slip and fall accidents still top the list of reasons to end up in the ER. Broken limbs and sprains are all too common thanks to bathroom accidents.
Adding the best non-slip bath mat you can find is one of the top ways to prevent a bathroom slip and fall. The challenge is then finding the best non-slip bathmat for you! What should you look for (and look out for) when it comes to purchasing one? We have come up with a checklist to help you find the best non-slip bathmat.
What to Look for in a Non-Slip Bathmat
Make sure when you look for a non-slip bath mat you consider the following. Checking these boxes will make sure you are getting the best deal and product for the long-term.
Foot Traction
This is possibly the most important. Foot traction refers to the ability of the bathmat to prevent slip and falls. You will want something that is comfortable on your bare feet but also provides the protection you need. Make sure you choose a fine grade grit. Consider a fine grade vinyl bathmat because it will meet both criteria.
Correct Sizing
This should be a no-brainer, but often gets overlooked. Consider if your bathmat will need to go over a drain. If so, you will want to find a product that has a drain cut out. Lengths of tubs can vary, and so can the bathmats. Make sure to measure your space and account of drains before making your purchase.
Mold and Mildew Resistant
The last thing you want is to pull up your bathmat in several weeks or months and see a steady growth of mildew and mold. The best non-slip bathmats will be antimicrobial to prevent mold and mildew for the long haul.
What to Look Out for in Bathmats
Although popular, raised bathmats can pose more of a risk than a fix to slip and falls. Make sure if you choose to use a raised bath mat you only use it outside of the shower or tub and never in the tub itself. It is also highly recommended to secure the bathmat to the ground so that is doesn’t curl over. If possible, stay away from raised bathmats and stick with a seamless product like a non-slip tread or tape outside the tub.
What is the Best Way to Maintain Shower Mats?
The best non-slip bathmats will require little to no maintenance. Periodic cleaning is necessary for any bathmat though. You will want to make sure to check with the manufacture, but generally using a stiff-bristled scrub brush works great. Pair it with a commercial tub and tile cleaner designed to remove soap scum and body oils in order to keep the lifespan of the mat long.
Ready to Find the Best Non-Slip Bathmat for You?
Jessup’s team is available to help! We offer a variety of sizes and styles when it comes to non-slip bathmats. Reach out to us to discuss the possibilities and have your questions answered.
What You Need to Know About Fire Extinguisher Safety in Your Building
Fire safety is essential in any building. As a building owner it is your responsibility to ensure the occupants know what to do in case of a fire emergency and are equipped with the proper tools. Fire safety equipment and fire safety signs are an essential part of every building.
Fire extinguishers are often purchased, but also often overlooked until they are needed. How many times a day do you pass by the fire extinguisher sign and not give it a second glance? However, fire extinguisher safety in your building is one of the most vital aspects to keeping occupants safe. Data collected over 34 years by the National Association of Fire Equipment Distributors (NAFED) observing 13,221 fire incidents, state that fire extinguishers successfully extinguished flames 95% of the time. Should a fire break out and by equipping yourself with some basic knowledge you will make all those who enter your building that much safer.
Fire Extinguisher Sign Compliance
Fire extinguisher signs have a straightforward and important job. Alert people to the location of the fire extinguisher. NFPA 101 and OSHA offer few requirements on what the fire extinguisher sign needs to look like, which gives building owners leeway to choose what they wish. Ensure you have compliant fire extinguisher signs with these simple tips:
- Fire extinguisher signs should clearly identify the fire extinguisher location. Arrows, lights, or coding of the wall or column may need to be used.
- Consider glow in the dark fire extinguisher signs in case of a power outage. Photoluminescent fire extinguisher signs can offer upwards of 18+ hours of illumination in some cases.
Types of Fire Extinguishers
Because not everything burns the same or can be extinguisher with the same type of fire extinguisher, five fire extinguisher classifications is critical to determining the type and number of extinguishers required. Consider how a grease fire differs from an oil fire, wood fire, or even flammable metal. The extinguishers are classified in several ways:
- Local hazards and ambient temperatures,
- Size and type of the fire most likely to occur
- Fuel type of potential fire
All fires have been placed into one of five fire classifications which are ranked Class A, B, C, D, or K. All buildings require Class A extinguishers. Additionally, fire extinguishers rated for class B, C, D and K hazards must be installed when those hazards are present.
Locations of Fire Extinguishers
Your buildings construction and fire hazards will determine where you need to place fire extinguishers. According to the 2018 NFPA 101 it states that “fire extinguishers shall be provided for the protection of both the building structure and the occupancy hazards contained therein regardless of the presence of any fixed fire suppression systems.”
All fire extinguishers need to be installed per the NFPA 101 requirements. The class of the extinguisher will determine how many feet away from occupants it must be installed. For example, a Class K extinguisher must be within 30 feet of occupants while a Class A extinguisher must be 75 feet or less. This travel distance indicates how far a person would need to walk in order to reach the fire extinguisher with all permanent or temporary obstructions accounted for.
Fire Safety Signage Experts
Jessup Manufacturing Company is a global manufacturer of fire safety signs, including fire extinguisher signs, emergency exit signs, and more. Contact our experts to discuss your options in fire safety signage.