Most people know that you have to put an emergency exit light at the point of egress in a building. Putting lights on the other side of the emergency exit is also a good idea. Consider the following.
The Rules
The Life Safety Code. Section 7.8.1.3 of NFPA 101 says that certain portions of the walking surface
of the exit discharge need to be illuminated with at least one footcandle's worth of light. Also, most building codes that you will need to follow will require that every exit have an exterior light because they often use the NFPA as a basis for their lighting rules.
OSHA also has requirements for lighting certain outdoor spaces.
For any exterior emergency light, you should use one that is rated specifically for working in wet areas.
The Benefits
Emergencies don't always happen in broad daylight, and emergency exits are sometimes situated
by necessity in tucked-away corners. This means that visibility could be poor right outside the door. This can make the emergency worse, leading panicked people to trip as they exit or to not be able to see where to go. Most of the time, people need to get at least a block away from the building in order to be safe, and they might not make it if they fall on the dimly lit sidewalk outside of the building.
And sometimes, you need to get inside the building in order to be safe. Exterior emergency lights can lead people inside or make the entrance visible to rescue parties.
Types
Emergency Wall Packs 
These are a type of lighting that are mounted directly on exterior walls. Wall packs come in different styles, from a common rectangular light to a more decorative type that looks sleek and modern. High Intensity Discharge lights have been used in many industrial applications, but LEDs are also possible. LEDs have the benefit of being brighter, more energy efficient, and longer-lived.
Waterproof Exit Signs 
Emergency exit signs made for the outdoors will have tough shells for their inner workings so that the weather doesn't damage them. Plus, they have water-resistant seals to keep rain and humidity out. Their letters will still meet OSHA's requirement for visibility.
Besides being ideal for outdoors, these are great for places where things get hosed down regularly.
Combination Emergency Lights and Exit Signs 
Often, you will find exit signs that have searchlights on the sides, top, or bottom. The lights can be pointed specifically to the sidewalk or other area that needs illumination.
All exterior emergency lights have back-up batteries or another way to stay running in the event of a power outage.
Lighting Services, Inc. carries plenty of exterior emergency lights and exit signs because we understand their importance. If the outside of your building needs emergency lighting, contact us.
