Exit signs are available in shapes, forms, and materials for the lighting practitioner to select from today. First, it is essential to understand what local and national codes are in guiding your specification. Cost, location of use, building construction, design, maintenance, life expectancy, and installation types are all points to review when selecting what type of exit sign will best meet the code and a final decision when making the specification.
Edge-lit technology
The adoption of LEDs as a lighting source altered how light can be used to illuminate objects. Traditionally, the illumination source was “inside” the object radiating out through a translucent material like glass or plastic. This internal light source may also be called “backlit” or “direct-lit.” Backlit signs are composed of a printed graphic and a lightbox. The graphic is often printed on translucent vinyl and then applied to transparent glass, acrylic, or Lexan. The light source shines through or behind the sign. Exit signs have been examples of this light source application for decades. However, LEDs’ small profile and flexibility enable light injection into the sides or edges of a translucent material. This circumference injection enables designs that are more sleek and space-efficient. An edge-lit LED panel, like those used in exit signs, is made of a row of LEDs attached to the outer edge or frame of the panel and projects horizontally into a light-guide plate (LGP). The LGP directs the light downwards, through a diffuser, into the space below. Edge-lit panels may also be referred to as side-lit.
Edge-lit exit signs have a tremendous variety of designs and, by sales rating, are the first choice of lighting practitioners, specifiers, and interior designers. Edge-lit exit signs feature aluminum or thermal plastic housings and can be installed to the surface or recessed into ceilings and walls. The ability to recess the housing gives the exit sign the cleanest installation look that no other exit sign can compete.
With ease of installation and flexible mounting capability, edge-lit exit signs are excellent for any architectural environment. The high-quality acrylic panels used in edge-lit signs are highly polished to guarantee uniform illumination throughout the sign.
Single-face and double-face exit sign options
Edge-lit panels are offered as single face or with a mirror partition for double face option when the sign needs to be visible from both sides. The typical edge-lit housing can be specified for recessed or surface mounting with permanent or interchangeable panels in aluminum or thermal plastic housing. The panel includes arrows showing exit direction, known as chevrons, and are commonly produced in a red or green panel color.
OSHA exit sign requirements
Since commercial buildings can be electrified 120V or 277V AC, exit signs are manufactured with a dual voltage input. An optional emergency backup is available, and signs are installed with a required test switch, status indicator, and a minimum 90-minute battery electrical backup. The Organization for Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that each exit sign illuminates to a surface value of at least five-foot candles with reliable light and a distinct color.
Learn more about exit sign regulations here.
