Emergency exit lights serve the purpose of guiding the closest, pre-planned path for a safe exit out of a building in case of an emergency. Exits have four main requirements according to OSHA. First, exits must allow separation by fire resistant rated materials, exits may only have necessary openings to the discharge area, the line of sight to the exit sign must be unblocked and visible, and finally, the exit sign placed above the door must be in legible writing and lighting, ensuring everyone can read it.
What are the official rules allowing an exit sign to follow compliance? According to The Office of Compliance, the following rules have to be followed.
- Visibility of the font has to meet certain requirements including size and spacing. The letters must be at least 6 inches tall, 3/4 of an inch wide in stroke, 2 inch width letter size and 3/8 inch spacing between letters.
- Illumination is a requirement, meaning the sign must be lit at all times including during power outages. External and internal lighting can be used. Tritium, photoluminescent, and LED exit signs are available. For external lighting, a 5-foot candle is the minimum coverage of light needed to follow compliance. The contrast must be above 0.5 to insure the clarity.
- Placement of the exit sign must be at least 80 inches between the top of the door and bottom of the sign.
- Maintenance must be kept on all exit signs. Signs should be visually inspected every month and are required to be tested regularly if battery-powered.
Why you should follow these rules? Exit signs are there to help guide people to the safest route out during an emergency. If a fire is occurring in your work place, there is a risk of people being incoherent due to smoke and low visibility. A bright lighted exit sign can lead the way to safety and save the lives of employees and guests that are present in the building.
For information regarding installing emergency lighting in your business contact us.
