Guide to Exit Sign Requirements

LED Exit Signs and Emergency Lighting provide reliable illumination when you need it most while remaining unobtrusive during normal operations. These critical safety components help facilitate safe evacuations during emergencies and support everyday wayfinding in commercial and industrial facilities.

Why Choose LED Exit Signs

LED technology offers significant advantages for exit sign applications. LEDs provide instant illumination with zero warm-up time, critical during emergencies. Their extended lifespan reduces maintenance requirements, while energy efficiency can lower operating costs by up to 80% compared to traditional incandescent signs.

Key benefits include:

• Instant-on capability for emergencies
• 20+ year lifespan reduces replacement costs
• Energy savings of 2-5 watts per sign
• Consistent light output over product lifetime
• Available with battery backup for power outages

Types of LED Exit Signs

• Edge-Lit Exit Signs – Slim profile design with illumination from the edge rather than behind the face panel
• Single Face Exit Signs – Display exit lettering on one side, typically mounted directly above doorways
• Double Face Exit Signs – Show exit lettering on both sides, designed for perpendicular mounting above corridors
• Wet Location Exit Signs – Protected against water damage for use in areas with fire sprinkler systems
• Exit/Emergency Light Combo – Combined units with battery-powered emergency lights that activate during power failures

Regulatory Requirements and Code Compliance

Exit signs must comply with multiple regulatory standards, including OSHA regulations, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes, and local building requirements. Facility managers should verify compliance with all applicable codes in their jurisdiction.

OSHA Requirements

Under OSHA regulation 1910.37(b), exit routes must be adequately lit and marked. Key requirements include:

• Illumination: Minimum 5 foot-candles (54 lux) on the sign surface
• Letter Size: “Exit” letters must be at least 6 inches high with 3/4-inch stroke width
• Visibility: Clear line of sight to exit signs at all times
• Direction: Directional arrows required where the exit path is not obvious
• False Exits: Non-exit doors must be marked “Not an Exit” or identified by use

NFPA Life Safety Code

The NFPA Life Safety Code (Section 7.10) specifies illumination requirements and emergency operation standards:

• External Illumination: Minimum 5 foot-candles with a contrast ratio greater than 0.5
• Internal Illumination: Must comply with UL 924 Standard for Emergency Lighting
• Emergency Duration: 1.5 hours minimum operation during power outages
• Light Levels: Minimum 1 foot-candle general illumination, 0.1 foot-candle at floor level

Selection and Installation Considerations

Proper exit sign selection depends on several factors:

• Mounting Location: Wall, ceiling, or suspended installation
• Viewing Angle: Single or double face based on corridor layout
• Environmental Conditions: Standard or wet location rating
• Power Source: Hardwired with battery backup or self-contained units
• Local Codes: Some areas require 8-inch lettering (New York, Chicago)

Maintenance and Testing

Regular maintenance ensures reliable operation during emergencies:

• Monthly visual inspection of illumination and physical condition
• Annual 30-second battery test for emergency units
• Every three years: 90-minute full battery discharge test
• Clean sign faces regularly to maintain visibility
• Document all testing and maintenance activities

For additional emergency lighting solutions, consider battery backup lighting systems and emergency lighting test equipment to ensure complete code compliance.

Professional Installation and Support

LED exit signs offer reliable, energy-efficient emergency illumination when properly selected and installed. Their instant-on capability and extended lifespan make them the preferred choice for modern facilities. Work with qualified electrical contractors to ensure proper installation and code compliance for your specific application.