The Anatomy of an Emergency Exit Sign: Understanding the Symbols, Colors, and Placement
Tips to Keep Your Building in Compliance
Emergency exit signs are a crucial element of any building's safety protocol. In the event of an emergency, they serve as a critical tool to guide occupants to safety. These signs are designed to be easily visible and understandable, even in low-light or smoke-filled conditions. However, not all signs are created equal. To effectively implement an emergency evacuation plan, it is essential to understand the anatomy of an emergency exit sign, including its symbols, colors, and placement.
Placement of Emergency Exit Signs
Placement is a critical element of building safety protocol. There are specific rules and requirements set by building codes and regulations that building owners and managers must follow to ensure that signs are appropriately installed and placed. These rules vary by jurisdiction, but there are some general guidelines that building owners should be aware of.
Emergency exit signs should be placed above all doors leading to an exit or exit passageway, including stairwells, hallways, and other escape routes. The signs should be visible from any location within the building, even in low-light or smoke-filled conditions. Additionally, the signs should be installed at a height that is easily visible, typically around 6 feet above the ground.
Another consideration is the use of directional arrows exit signs. Arrows should be used to indicate the direction of the nearest exit or exit route. Arrows should also be used at intersections or decision points to guide occupants toward the proper exit path.
The number of exit signs required depends on the size and layout of the building. A general rule of thumb is that occupants should be able to see at least one exit sign from any location within the building. Therefore, larger buildings may require more exit signs to ensure that occupants can find their way to safety quickly.
It is also important to note that the signs should be easily distinguishable from other signage within the building. Signs should be uniformly sized and placed in locations that do not obstruct or confuse occupants. Building owners should also regularly inspect and maintain their exit signs to ensure that they are functioning properly and visible at all times.
Using the Right Symbols and Colors
The symbols and colors used on these signs play a critical role in guiding occupants to safety during an emergency. There are industry standards and requirements that building owners should be aware of to ensure that their exit signs comply with regulations.
One of the most commonly used symbols on emergency exit signs is the running man. The running man symbolizes the need for occupants to quickly move to safety. Another common symbol is the arrow, which indicates the direction of the nearest exit or exit route. Other symbols may also be used, but they must be easily recognizable and understood by all occupants.
As for colors, the background of the sign should be green or white, while the text and symbols should be in contrasting colors such as red or black. These color combinations increase visibility and make the sign easier to read. Red is often used to highlight the most critical information, such as the word "EXIT," while black is used for other text and symbols.
In the United States, sign standards are set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The NFPA has established standards for the design, installation, and maintenance of exit signs, including the symbols and colors that must be used. These standards are incorporated into the International Building Code (IBC), which is widely adopted by states and local jurisdictions in the US.
In Europe, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) sets standards for exit signs. ISO 7010 specifies the symbols, colors, and shapes that should be used. These standards are widely adopted throughout Europe and are mandatory in many countries.
Maintaining Emergency Exit Signs
Building owners and managers should be aware of the requirements around maintenance and testing to ensure that their exit signs are always visible and functioning correctly.
One important requirement is that signs must be tested regularly to ensure that they are working correctly. This testing should include both a visual inspection and a functional test. The visual inspection should check for damage to the sign, including broken or missing parts, while the functional test should ensure that the sign lights up when the emergency power is activated.
The frequency of testing depends on the jurisdiction and the type of building, but most codes require testing at least once a month. In addition, building owners should perform an annual inspection to ensure that they comply with all applicable codes and regulations.
Another important aspect of maintenance is keeping the signs clean and free of obstruction. Signs should be regularly cleaned to ensure that they are visible and legible. Any obstructions, such as overgrown plants or stacked boxes, should be removed to ensure that the sign is always visible.
If a sign is found to be damaged or malfunctioning during testing or inspection, it must be repaired or replaced immediately. Building owners should also keep records of all testing, inspections, and repairs to demonstrate compliance with applicable codes and regulations.
Shop Emergency Exit Signs
If you are a building owner or manager looking for high-quality emergency exit signs that comply with industry standards and regulations, visit Jessup Manufacturing at JessupMFG.com. Jessup offers a wide variety of emergency exit signs that are easy to install, maintain, and test, ensuring that your building is always prepared for an emergency.
