Exit Signs
Exit signs are an essential safety feature in any building. They allow occupants to find exits in a fire or other emergency easily. Numerous types of exit signs are available, with many designed for specific environments or applications.
Types of Exit Signs
The typical exit sign in commercial and public buildings is an illuminated one. This sign has a light source that illuminates it, making it visible even in low-light conditions. Illuminated exit signs are available in various styles, including wall-mounted signs, ceiling-mounted signs, and floor-mounted signs.
Additional types of exit signs include
Non-illuminated exit signs, which have no light source and are only visible in well-lit conditions.
Self-luminous exit signs that contain tritium gas to produce light without the need for electricity.
Explosion-proof exit signs that are designed to contain any explosion of vapors or gases within the fixture housing.
There are also several specialized exit signs available. For example, exit signs are designed for use in areas with high levels of dust or dirt, wet locations, and exit signs intended for use in areas with flammable materials.
Vandal Proof Exit Signs
A vandal-proof exit sign is designed to resist damage from vandalism. Vandal-proof exit signs are typically made from durable materials like steel or aluminum. They may also have features that make them difficult to damage, such as shatter-resistant lenses or tamper-resistant screws.
Some of the most common types of vandal-proof exit sign features include:
Steel exit signs: Steel exit signs are made from a durable material resistant to damage. They are often used in high-traffic areas with a risk of vandalism.
Aluminum exit signs: Aluminum exit signs are also made from a durable material resistant to damage. They are often used in outdoor areas exposed to the elements.
Shatter-resistant exit signs: Shatter-resistant exit signs have lenses made from a material that is difficult to break if struck by vandals throwing rocks or other objects at the sign.
Tamper-resistant exit signs: Tamper-resistant exit signs have screws and seams inaccessible by vandals.
Laws Related to Exit Signs
The laws pertaining to exit signs vary from state to state. However, there are some general requirements that all exit signs must meet. For example, all exit signs must be clearly visible and located where people are likely to see them. In addition, all exit signs must be maintained in good working order. It is important to check with your local fire department to determine the specific requirements for exit signs in your area.
Some states or cities have codes that may be more stringent than federal laws, including:
New York
In New York, exit signs are regulated by the New York State Fire Prevention and Building Code. The code requires that all buildings have at least two exit signs and that the signs be located in clearly visible areas. The signs must also be illuminated, so that they can be seen in low-light conditions.
The code also specifies the size and shape of exit signs. Exit signs must be at least 12 inches high and 6 inches wide and have a red background with white lettering. The letters on the sign must be at least 3 inches tall.
Chicago
In Chicago, exit signs are regulated by the Chicago Fire Department. The department’s regulations are similar to those of the New York State Fire Prevention and Building Code. However, the Chicago Fire Department also requires that exit signs be located in specific building areas. For example, there must be an exit sign within 50 feet of every exit and an exit sign at the top and bottom of every stairway.
Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, exit signs are regulated by the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal’s Office. The office’s regulations are similar to those of the New York State Fire Prevention and Building Code and the Chicago Fire Department. However, the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal’s Office also requires that exit signs be made of non-combustible materials.
Trust the Industry Leader
Learn more about the life safety products and services provided by Isolite. Rewatch presentations from the Chalk Talk webinar series, including 40+ webinars on EMP and emergency drivers, remote lamps & heads, inverter runtimes, emergency systems maintenance, and more!