In the event of a fire, when chaos reigns and everyone is scared, having proper signage can save lives. By understanding more about fire exits and their requirements, businesses, and other facilities can ensure that proper fire exit signs are posted where they need to be.

There is a lot to know about fire exit signs. Read on to find out why they are important, and the requirements that come along with having fire exit signs on your property.

Why are fire exit signs important?

So, the million-dollar question becomes, “Why are fire exit signs so important?” No matter the facility, be it industrial, healthcare, commercial, or another building type, fire can be extremely dangerous. The goal of fire exit signs is to ensure that everyone is able to escape the premises to a safe meeting area somewhere nearby.

Since fire is extremely dangerous and can spread quickly, getting people out as fast as possible becomes crucial. Proper fire exit signs will show people where to go in the event of a fire, promoting a fast, smooth, safe exit from the building in the moments after the emergency is determined.

Proper inspection matters

When it comes to fire exit signs, inspection is a critical part of the process. Exit signs and routes need to be inspected periodically to ensure that everything is up to code. It can also be helpful to make sure that an inspector knows how the system works in order to get proper auditing and inspection results.

Inspectors will need to know all of the critical features of emergency fire exits and lighting systems. This will help them provide a proper inspection, ensuring that everything – from signage to alarms – works properly. Keeping compliant will not only ensure the safety of anyone in the building at the time of a fire but also keep businesses and organisations from facing potentially hefty fines.

Fire exit sign requirements

It is crucial to know that fire exit signs cannot just be posted in random spots. There are a few requirements that must be followed in order to pass compliance requirements and ensure the safest possible exit.

1. Signage must be properly lit so that it is visible even in the event of a power failure in the building.
2. Signs must be visible at least halfway between the exit and the next closest fire exit. So, if a person is in a hallway between two entrances, the signs must be legible and clear.
3. When there are obstructions, secondary signage would be required. For internal hallways, walls, and cubicle walls that obstruct view, secondary signage needs to be posted in order to direct people in the right way in the event of a fire.
4. Exit signs are one of the most important components of an emergency exit route. There are other components like exit devices, the walkway, door, and more that will help to create a safe exit path and work environment. It helps to have a fire inspection checklist to ensure that everything is working properly and to keep you covered. Also, check with local authorities to make sure that you are covering any and all potential legal requirements within that jurisdiction.
5. Any signs posted must be clearly visible and have legible letters plainly displayed. There also needs to be adequate contrast between the lettering and background of the sign so that they are easily visible. A fire exit sign will become the first indicator that occupants look for when evacuating in the event of a fire. Proper exit signage will indicate a clear, immediate exit path to the escape route.

Fire exit signs play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of individuals during emergency situations, particularly fires. These signs serve as clear and easily recognizable markers that guide people to the nearest exits, providing them with a swift and orderly path to escape from potentially life-threatening situations.

Without fire exit signs, chaos and confusion can prevail, making it difficult for occupants to find their way out and putting lives at risk. Therefore, the presence of well-maintained and properly illuminated fire exit signs is not only a legal requirement in many places but also a vital component of any building’s safety infrastructure, helping to safeguard the lives of its occupants in times of crisis.