The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Emergency Exit Sign for Your Building's Layout and Code Requirements

Emergency exit signs are a crucial aspect of any building’s safety infrastructure. They guide occupants to the nearest exit in case of an emergency, and help to prevent confusion and panic during a crisis. But with a variety of emergency exit signs available on the market, how do you choose the right one for your building’s layout and code requirements? 

In this ultimate guide, we will explore the different types of emergency exit signs available, the relevant code requirements, and provide tips on how to choose and maintain the right emergency exit sign for your building.

Understanding Emergency Exit Sign Types
There are several types of emergency exit signs available on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. It’s essential to understand the differences between each type of sign to choose the one that best fits your building’s needs.

Photoluminescent Signs
Also known as glow-in-the-dark signs, this technology absorbs light energy and releases it slowly over time, creating a long-lasting, self-illuminating glow. They are energy-efficient, require no external power source, and have a lifespan of up to 25 years. Photoluminescent signs are an excellent choice for buildings with a lot of natural light, as they are not as visible in low-light environments.

LED Exit Signs
LED exit signs use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to produce bright, energy-efficient illumination. They are highly visible in all lighting conditions and have a lifespan of up to 10 years. LED exit signs are an excellent choice for buildings that require constant illumination, such as hospitals or schools.

Tritium Exit Signs
Tritium exit signs contain a small amount of radioactive tritium gas that emits light as it decays. They require no external power source and have a lifespan of up to 20 years. Tritium exit signs are ideal for buildings that require continuous illumination, such as warehouses or manufacturing plants.

Electroluminescent Exit Signs
Electroluminescent exit signs use a technology that creates a visible light source from an electric field. They are highly visible in all lighting conditions, have a lifespan of up to 15 years, and are energy-efficient. Electroluminescent exit signs are an excellent choice for buildings that require frequent maintenance, as they are easy to install and require minimal upkeep.

Code Requirements for Emergency Exit Signs
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Codes
The NFPA is an organization that sets standards for fire protection and life safety. They publish a set of codes known as the NFPA Life Safety Code, which provides requirements for the installation, inspection, and maintenance of emergency exit signs. The code requires that all exit signs be visible and legible in all lighting conditions, and that they are placed at or near the exit they represent.

International Building Code (IBC) Requirements
The IBC is a set of codes that provides minimum requirements for the design and construction of buildings. The code requires that all exit signs be placed in an unobstructed view of the exit they represent, and that they are visible from any direction of approach.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Considerations
The ADA is a law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. The law requires that all emergency exit signs include tactile characters and Braille to ensure that individuals with visual impairments can locate the exit.

Choosing the Right Emergency Exit Sign
Now that we’ve explored the different types of emergency exit signs available and the relevant code requirements, let’s look at how to choose the right sign for your building.

Evaluate the Building Layout
The first step in choosing the right emergency exit sign is to evaluate your building’s layout. Take note of the number of exits and the distance between them. Consider the lighting conditions in each area of the building, as well as any potential obstructions that could interfere with visibility. By understanding the layout of your building, you can choose the right type of sign and ensure that they are placed in the most effective location.

Consider the Code Requirements
Another essential factor to consider when choosing an emergency exit sign is the relevant code requirements. Review the NFPA Life Safety Code and the IBC to ensure that you are selecting a sign that meets the minimum requirements. Consider the ADA requirements as well, especially if your building serves individuals with disabilities.

Choose the Type of Sign that Fits Your Needs
Once you have evaluated your building’s layout and the relevant code requirements, you can choose the type of emergency exit sign that best fits your needs. Consider the lighting conditions in your building, the lifespan of the sign, and the ease of maintenance when making your decision. Ultimately, the goal is to select a sign that is visible, legible, and easy to maintain.

Installation and Maintenance of Emergency Exit Signs
Once you have selected the right emergency exit sign for your building, it’s essential to ensure that it is installed and maintained correctly. Proper installation and maintenance are crucial to ensure that the sign remains visible and effective in the event of an emergency.

Placement and Mounting Requirements
The NFPA Life Safety Code and the IBC provide guidelines on the placement and mounting of emergency exit signs. Signs must be placed in an unobstructed view of the exit they represent, and they must be visible from any direction of approach. Signs must be mounted securely to prevent them from falling or being knocked down.

Testing and Maintenance Procedures
Regular testing and maintenance are crucial to ensure that your emergency exit signs remain visible and effective. The NFPA Life Safety Code and the IBC require that emergency exit signs be tested and maintained at least once a year. During the inspection, check the sign’s visibility, legibility, and condition. Replace any signs that are damaged, faded, or illegible.

When to Replace Emergency Exit Signs
Even with proper maintenance, emergency exit signs will eventually need to be replaced. The lifespan of each type of sign varies, but it’s essential to replace them before they become too faded or damaged to be effective. Signs that are more than ten years old should be replaced, regardless of their condition.

Shop Emergency Exit Signage
By choosing the right type of sign and ensuring that they are installed and maintained correctly, you can help to ensure the safety of your building’s occupants in the event of an emergency. 

Remember to evaluate your building’s layout, consider the code requirements, and choose a sign that fits your needs. Regular testing and maintenance are crucial to ensure that your emergency exit signs remain visible and effective. By following these guidelines, you can select and maintain the right emergency exit sign for your building.

Shop a wide selection of emergency exit signs today at JessupMFG.com