The emergency exit signs and lights are among the most important parts of your building’s safety system. In the event of a fire or other building emergency, people can’t always rely upon their personal knowledge when it comes to finding their way outside. Strangers to the building won’t know the best exit routes, and even those familiar with the building layout can become confused. Exit signs and lights have to be bright and clear, able to be viewed through smoke and in darkness. They’re a crucial item on your regular electrical maintenance list.
Regulations
State and federal regulations cover the electrical safety features in your business, and this includes any exit signs and lights attached to them. According to the federal government, signs must be at least 6 inches tall with letters at least 2 inches wide, except the letter “I.” Signs have to be illuminated by a reliable light source. In order to comply with this ruling, most lights are wired to a standby generator to ensure the power to the sign stays on, even during a blackout.
Inspections
Regular inspections ensure that emergency exit signs point in the right direction and remain lit during any emergencies. Electrical maintenance schedules should include changing any light bulbs associated with the sign, both internal and external, as well as inspecting and maintaining the emergency power supply attached to these lights. This may include topping off fuel tanks, lubricating moving parts, or even cleaning the environment around the generator itself. Signs should be securely affixed to the walls, and inspectors should check screws or other fasteners to make sure they haven’t begun to come loose. The law says that all emergency exit signs should be capable of being illuminated for at least 90 minutes without going out. A regular inspection will test this and repair any lights that don’t comply with this ruling.
Placement
The placement of your exit signs is a crucial part of their design. Legally, they have to be no less than 80 inches above the floor to the bottom of the sign. Great care should be taken that the sign isn’t obstructed by any object in any direction. Check nearby doors and other moving objects to make sure they don’t cover the signs at any time. Additional exit signs should be attached next to the door latch, and a sign in Braille should be provided. If you have any large doors in your business building that look like they may be exit doors, regulations say that you have to post a sign stating that this is not an exit.
Benefits
Illuminated exit signs may offer an obvious benefit of pointing the way outdoors during a fire, blackout, or other emergency, but they have secondary benefits, as well. Insurance companies can give discounts to businesses that are compliant with safety regulations. Local governmental authorities sometimes have the power to levy fines and punishments if you don’t comply with the laws. Also, in case of any type of emergency, having abundant lighted exit signs all over your business can help to prevent frivolous lawsuits after the fact. Unfortunately, people will sue for almost any reason, and any evidence you have that can prove you took logical precautions is a large point in your favor.
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