What to know about Emergency Exit Signs for your small business

Emergency Exit Signs

What to know about Emergency Exit Signs for your small business

Emergency exit signs carry a hefty job to do with little notice. It can be confusing as a small business owner what is required when it comes to the ever-evolving word of exit sign and safety, but you are legally obligated to understand and follow fire safety laws properly to keep patrons and employees safe. Learn about various types of emergency exit signs and the million-dollar question of where and which ones do you need as a small business owner.

Building Fire Exits Sign Basics

OSHA requires that all workplace buildings have at least two fire exits located in far proximity from one another that can be used in fire emergencies. Examples of these include doors, windows, or another opening large enough for a person to crawl through to go outdoors. Certain businesses, like those of R-1 occupancy rating, will require additional measures to be taken when it comes to emergency exits. It is important to consult with your local and state fire safety guidelines to ensure you are covered.

 

OSHA also requires all fire exits to remain clear, unobstructed and clearly marked with lighted exit signs. An approved alarm system that is part of the fire door’s design is acceptable, but all other instances need to be removed from the exit.

Types of Emergency Exit Signs

From varying technology to styles of exit signs, the market is filled with many options. Depending on your type of business and location these are several types of exit signs you will need to be educated on.

Technology Options

As the industry grows, the technology offered for emergency exit signs improves. Currently, the most popular options are photoluminescent, fluorescent and LED. In particular, photoluminescent exit signs and egress systems have increased in popularity because of their longevity and ease of use.

Low Level Exit Signs

As their name implies, these are exit signs that you will find towards the ground. The letter requirements are the same as regular exit signs and can be internally or externally illuminated. Low level exit signs are not required for all small businesses, but according to the International Building Code and the International Fire Code, if your building has Group R-1 occupancy then floor level exit signs are required. Group R-1 occupancy is generally residential buildings containing sleeping units primarily used in a transient manner.

 

Running Man Exit Sign

Everyone has seen the classic bright red lettered EXIT sign in America. However, the running man exit sign has widespread global appeal. Throughout the world, exit signs follow the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and use the green pictogram of a figure running and an arrow in the direction of the exit.

 

Because the running man exit sign is not subject to language barriers and can be configured to your emergency exit location it makes a popular choice to optimize small business fire safety.

Wet Location Emergency Exit Signs

Required from any indoor or outdoor location that may produce condensation or become wet, wet location exit signs have a specific design and need to meet specific criteria from various authorities, including state and local codes. From exit signs near air conditioning units to those subject to the weather elements, wet locations are generally defined as interior or exterior locations in which liquid may come in contact with the exit sign.

 

State and city requirements vary, including some requiring wet location exit signs in places you wouldn’t normally consider. Make sure you do your due diligence to review your specific location rules to ensure you are properly complying. Pro tip: Indoor locations near sprinkler systems often are overlooked but need to wet location exit signs installed.

Keep Your Small Business Safe

Keep your small business safe by taking time to ensure that you are installing emergency exit signs in the correct locations and under the proper criteria. Regulating authorities include Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and International Building Code and International Fire Code. Understanding and implementing their criteria will ensure your building is prepared for fire emergencies.

 

Keep in mind that emergency exit requirements vary depending on the type of small business and location you run it in. With the exit sign and safety industry continuing to evolve, reach out to our experts at Jessup Manufacturing to discuss what emergency exit signs your small business should consider.

2020-08-25 23:44:00
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