An emergency exit sign is a fixture we see every day in public spaces, yet its importance is often overlooked until it is critically needed. These signs are silent guardians, guiding people to safety during emergencies like fires, power outages, or other events that require a quick evacuation. Understanding their function, regulations, and the different types available, such as the exit sign emergency light combo, is essential for facility managers, business owners, and safety officers. This guide will explore everything you need to know about the vital role of an emergency exit sign.
An emergency exit sign is a pictogram or short text placed in a public facility, such as a building, aircraft, or boat, that marks the location of the nearest emergency exit. Its purpose is to provide a clear, illuminated path for occupants to follow in an emergency that necessitates rapid evacuation. These signs are a fundamental component of a building's life safety system, ensuring that even in conditions of low visibility or panic, the way out remains obvious.
An effective emergency exit sign must be visible and legible from a distance. Regulations dictate the size, illumination, and placement of these signs to guarantee they can perform their function when needed most. Many facilities also utilize an emergency exit only sign to prevent regular use of these pathways, preserving them for urgent situations and avoiding confusion.
In an emergency, power failure is a common and dangerous possibility. A standard sign would be rendered useless in the dark, which is why illuminated signs are a legal requirement in most jurisdictions. The exit sign emergency light combo is a highly effective and popular solution that addresses this very issue.
An exit sign emergency light combo integrates both the exit sign and emergency lighting into a single unit. These fixtures serve a dual purpose: they clearly mark the exit route and also provide essential illumination along the path of egress. When the main power supply is cut, an internal battery backup system instantly activates, keeping both the sign and the attached floodlights powered. This ensures that hallways, stairwells, and doorways remain lit, preventing trips, falls, and disorientation during an evacuation. Opting for an exit sign emergency light combo simplifies installation, reduces maintenance costs, and provides a comprehensive safety solution in one package.
The color of an emergency exit sign is not a matter of aesthetic choice; it is strictly regulated and varies by region. The two primary colors used globally are green and red.
Green: In many parts of the world, including the United Kingdom, Europe, China, Japan, Australia, and South Korea, green is the mandated color. This is based on directives like the European Union's Directive 92/58/EEC and standards such as BS EN 1838. The logic behind using green is its universal association with safety, permission, and "go." It indicates a safe path forward.
Red: In the United States, both red and green are permitted by safety codes, though red is more traditionally and commonly used. Red is often associated with warnings, emergencies, and the location of safety equipment like fire extinguishers. Proponents argue that its high visibility makes it effective in drawing attention during a crisis.
The choice between red and green can depend on local fire codes and inspector preferences. However, the key is consistency throughout a building. Mixing colors can cause confusion, so a facility should use one color for every emergency exit sign it installs.
Proper placement is just as important as the sign itself. An emergency exit sign must be located at every designated exit door. For long corridors or open spaces, additional signs are required to direct people toward the nearest exit. An arrow on the sign indicates the direction of travel if the exit is not immediately visible.
Regulations also dictate the mounting height and visibility distance. Every emergency exit sign and exit sign emergency light combo must be connected to a reliable power source and have a battery backup that can last for at least 90 minutes.
Monthly Inspections: A 30-second push-to-test check to ensure the battery and lights are functioning correctly.
Annual Tests: A full 90-minute discharge test to verify that the battery can sustain illumination for the required duration.
Neglecting the maintenance of an emergency exit only sign or an exit sign emergency light combo can result in failed inspections, fines, and, most importantly, a catastrophic failure during a real emergency.
When selecting an emergency exit sign, several factors come into play. You need to consider your building's specific needs, local code requirements, and budget.
Table: Types of Emergency Exit Signs
For most commercial buildings, a thermoplastic exit sign emergency light combo provides the best balance of cost, durability, and compliance. It fulfills the requirements for both marking the exit and illuminating the path in a single, easy-to-install fixture. The use of an emergency exit only sign should also be considered for doors that could be mistaken for a general-use exit.
A: An emergency exit sign is required by law to be illuminated at all times when a building is occupied. This ensures it is always visible. The exit sign emergency light combo uses AC power for normal operation and switches to its battery backup only during a power failure.
A: The backup batteries in an emergency exit sign are designed to power the sign for at least 90 minutes during an outage. The lifespan of the battery itself is typically 5 to 7 years, after which it should be replaced.
A: A "maintained" light is on continuously, like an emergency exit sign. A "non-maintained" light only turns on when the main power fails. Most exit sign emergency light combo units are maintained (the sign is always on) while the attached floodlights are non-maintained.
A: While the physical installation might seem straightforward, these signs must be wired into the building's electrical system according to specific codes. It is highly recommended to have a licensed electrician perform the installation to ensure compliance and safety.
The emergency exit sign is a non-negotiable component of building safety. From the simple emergency exit only sign to the versatile exit sign emergency light combo, these devices are essential for protecting lives. Ensuring you have the right signs, installed correctly and maintained regularly, is a fundamental responsibility for any property owner or manager.
When it comes to something as critical as life safety, you need a partner you can trust. For top-quality, compliant, and reliable emergency lighting solutions, we recommend YuanHe. Their extensive range of emergency exit signs and combo units meets stringent international standards, providing peace of mind and uncompromising safety.
To find the perfect emergency exit sign for your facility, contact the experts at YuanHe today.
Email: kate@worldyuanhe.com / helen@worldyuanhe.com
Phone: +86-15992108555 / +86-13427117019
