Exit and emergency lighting are critical for public safety and are required in virtually all public buildings. Whether you are outfitting a new construction or updating an existing facility, choosing the right sign involves more than just picking a brand.
This guide covers the essential factors to consider when purchasing exit signs from 1000Bulbs.com to ensure you remain compliant with local building codes and fire safety regulations.
1. Choosing the Correct Color: Red vs. Green
State and local municipalities have different requirements for the color of the lettering on exit signs.
Red Lettering: Commonly required in states like Illinois and South Carolina.
Green Lettering: Standard in states like Washington, Michigan, and Indiana.
Pro Tip: Most states allow either color or leave the decision to the local municipality. Always check with your local Fire Marshal before purchasing to ensure compliance.
2. Single-Face vs. Double-Face Fixtures
Where you mount the sign determines how many "faces" it needs:
Single-Face: Used when the sign is mounted flat against a wall or in a spot where it only needs to be viewed from one direction.
Double-Face: Necessary for hallways or open areas where the sign must be visible from two directions (e.g., hanging from the ceiling in the middle of a corridor).
Universal Mounting: Many signs at 1000Bulbs feature "Universal" mounting, meaning they include an extra faceplate so you can configure it as either single or double-face during installation.
3. Understanding Illumination Types
LED Exit Signs: The modern standard. They are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and provide bright internal illumination for the letters.
Edge-Lit Signs: These feature a clear or mirrored panel where the light source is hidden in the top housing, creating a sleek, high-end look often used in offices and lobbies.
Photoluminescent (Non-Electric): These "glow-in-the-dark" signs require no electricity or batteries. They "charge" using ambient light during the day.
Note: These are not suitable for all environments; ensure your building's ambient light level is sufficient to charge them per NFPA guidelines.
4. Directional Chevrons (Arrows)
Most thermoplastic and aluminum exit signs come with knockout chevrons on both sides.
If the exit is to the right, you "knock out" the right arrow.
If the exit is directly behind the sign, you leave both arrows covered.
Required: These are mandatory if the sign is pointing down a hallway toward an exit route that isn't immediately visible.
5. Maintenance and Testing Requirements
To ensure safety, OSHA and the NFPA require regular testing of all powered exit signs:
Monthly Test: Signs must be tested for a minimum of 30 seconds.
Annual Test: Signs with battery backups must be tested for 90 minutes to ensure the battery can sustain light during a prolonged outage.
Self-Testing Models: To save on labor costs, consider "Self-Testing" signs. These units perform their own diagnostics every 30 days, so maintenance staff only need to check a visual status LED rather than manually holding a test button.
Need Expert Assistance?
If you are still unsure which sign meets your local fire code or need bulk pricing for a commercial project, contact a 1000Bulbs lighting pro:
Phone: 1-800-624-4488
Hours: Mon–Fri, 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (CST)
Shop the Category: Exit Signs at 1000Bulbs.com
Comments
0 comments
Article is closed for comments.