Selection, Placement, Installation - FAQs

"Safety doesn’t happen by accident." – Author Unknown

Planning for Life Safety

There are three main reasons that most businesses cite for purchasing and installing emergency egress lighting and signs: 1) To meet local fire and building code standards; 2) To meet other pertinent State and Federal standards; and, 3) To meet applicable insurance company requirements. There is really only one important reason that everyone should remember about installing and operating emergency lighting and exit signs:

The selection and installion of an exit sign or emergency light will not prevent the start of a fire, or mitigate it's outcome. It will have no effect on the amount of property damage that may be caused by that fire. However, it is vitally important that when evaluating the use and installation of exit signs, emergency lights, egress signs, and photoluminescent markings, the installer or architect recognizes that this equipment is present for the preservation of human life, not property.

Placement & Installation of Exit Signs & Emergency Lighting

Collected here are guidelines about the recommended placement and installation of exit signs, emergency lights, and emergency egress signs and path markings. "Best practices" are also recognized. The ultimate code authority on your particular needs is, or course, your local fire & building code enforcement agency.

Best Practices Tip: Consider exceeding minimum safety standards when "good judgement" dictates that additional lighting and / or signage may be needed for safety and clarity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

There are many factors which need to be considered when selecting emergency lighting and signage. How important is upfront cost? What about energy-efficiency? Are there environmental issues such as extreme temperatures where the equipment will be installed? The answers to these questions and other frequently asked questions are collected here.

Best Practices Tip: Don't forget about factoring in installation, maintenance, and operating costs when evaluating the type of sign or light to install.