Emergency/Exit Lighting

What is it?

An emergency exit is a special exit used only in the case of emergencies, such as a fire. They allow for faster and alternative evacuation, which can be used if the regular exit route is blocked by fire or debris. It is usually located in a hallway or stairwell. Emergency exits are marked by emergency lighting, typically a white sign that hangs above the door. Almost all safety, health, building, and fire codes require exit signs to be constantly lit. They are created to be understandable to anyone and easily recognizable. While most signs display the word “EXIT” (which, in Latin, literally means “go out”), some signs are in pictogram form for people of any background to understand. Originally, exit signs were made from metal and lit with an incandescent light bulb. This was problematic, however, because in a fire, the power to the light often failed. They could also be difficult to see in the smoke. In recent years, however, phosphorescent and radio luminescent signs that use no electricity have been developed. While electricity is still used in the majority of signs, these types of signs are becoming more and more popular. The real choice comes down to whether you use fluorescent or LED lights in your sign. Because an exit sign is always lit, fluorescent bulbs will need to be changed frequently. LED lights can last as long as 10 years, even with continuous use, although they tend to be less bright than fluorescent bulbs. Modern exit sign fixtures usually have a metal housing securely bolted to the ceiling or wall, and have plastic or metal knock-outs which can be removed. They usually are combined with emergency floodlighting as well.

Benefits

Emergency exit signs are incredibly beneficial, as they inform everyone in a building where the nearest exit is for them in case an emergency occurs. They usually signal the fastest way to get out, or where to go if the main exit is blocked. While emergency exits are helpful, they are not life savers. Exit plans need to be in place before an emergency occurs, and people need to be aware of where all emergency exits are located. That way, if an emergency does occur, everyone will know exactly where to go. Exit signs are helpful if there is thick smoke or if the power goes out, because the bulbs are generally very bright and easy to see.

Cost

The price of an emergency exit sign depends almost entirely on the type of bulb you use. If you are using an LED light, for example, you can expect to pay between $80 and $100 for one sign. While purchasing multiple LED light emergency exit signs might be a large up-front cost, these lights can last as long as 10 years, so you will be saving money in the long run. Emergency exit signs aren’t the place to try and save money either, as they are incredibly useful in the case of a fire or other emergency. The last thing you want is for your emergency exit sign to burn out when you really need it. These signs should also be properly maintained. This includes regular cleaning and checking to make sure the bulb is still in good working condition.