Are your emergency exit signs up to code? Here’s what you need to know.

Emergency exit signs and egress marking systems serve one of the most understated, but important purposes in your building. To keep anyone inside it safe during a fire or other power outage situation. From people who work inside the building daily to those who stepped foot in it for the first time, being able to exit quickly is critical.

That is why several organizations and your local jurisdictions have set forth emergency exit sign codes. Without being up to code your building can face severe fines and worse, could be harming those within it by not having an accurate and clear way to efficiently leave your building in case of an emergency. We understand that keeping track of the codes and specifications for emergency exit signs might be confusing.

This quick overview is meant to help you understand if your emergency exit signs are up to code.

Emergency Exit Sign Code Requirements to Know

This is by no means an exhaustive list of requirements, but some of the most important and commonly asked about.

Sign Illumination

Obviously, the exit sign needs to glow in the dark, but how bright does it need to be illuminated? The NFPA states that the exit sign must put out a least an average of 1-foot candle and never less than .1 foot candle. During a power outage, you need to make sure your exit signs can remain lit for a minimum of 90 minutes.

Exit Sign Lettering

Having an easily readable sign means having letters written large enough to be seen in some cases down the hallway. In Section 7.10.6.1.1 of NFPA Life Code 101, it says that exit sign lettering needs to be no less than 6" tall. Be sure to check with your local jurisdiction on this one, because in areas like New York City they require an 8’’ minimum on letters.

Mounting

When installing your emergency exit signs there are certain rules as to how high (or low) they need to be mounted.

For signs above the exit doors, NFPA states that the bottom of the new exit signs is located at a vertical distance not more than 6’ 8’’ (2030 mm) above the top edge of the egress opening intended for marking.

In some buildings, low-level exit signs are required. If you are mounting low-level exit signs, the International Code Council states that the bottom of low-level exit signs is no less than 10’’ (254mm) and no more than 12’’ (305mm) from the floor level. NFPA reports the bottom of the signs may be installed 6-18’’ above the floor level.

Exit Sign Certifications & Compliance

Building codes rely on the use of emergency exit signs that meet certain criteria. When choosing exit signs you will want to look for those that meet certain safety and performance standards. This means to look for emergency exit signs that are UL 924 listed, ADA compliant, and meets current NFPA Life Safety Code 101 and OSHA requirements.

Contact Emergency Exit Sign Experts

To help make sure your emergency exit signs in line with fire safety laws in your area you may want to consult with your local fire marshal. If you are looking for code-compliant emergency exit signs for your building or have questions on the different emergency exit signs on the market, please contact us.