When you manage a commercial building, safety is always a top priority. Whether you’re responsible for an office, a school, a warehouse, or a healthcare facility, you want to know that everyone inside can find their way out quickly and safely in an emergency. That’s why emergency lighting and exit signs are so important.
They go beyond just following the rules. They’re about protecting lives. Here’s what you need to know about emergency lighting and exit sign requirements, and how to keep your facility ready at all times.
Why Emergency Lighting and Exit Signs Matter
Picture this: The power suddenly goes out during a storm or fire alarm. The building is plunged into darkness, and people need to evacuate fast. In these moments, reliable emergency lighting and clearly marked exits can make all the difference. These systems help prevent panic, guide people to safety, and reduce the risk of injury or worse.
Emergency lighting and exit signs do more than light the way. They help maintain order, support first responders, and provide peace of mind for everyone in your building. Plus, they are required by law.
What Do the Codes Require?
Emergency lighting and exit sign requirements are set by several codes and standards, including the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 101 Life Safety Code), the International Building Code (IBC), the International Fire Code (IFC), and OSHA regulations. Staying compliant isn’t about avoiding fines, it’s about keeping people safe. The importance has never been higher.
Here’s a quick overview of the main requirements:
| Requirement | What the Codes Say |
| Illumination Levels | At least 1 foot-candle along the path of egress; higher at stairs. Never below 0.1 foot-candle. |
| Activation & Duration | Must activate within 10 seconds of power loss and last at least 90 minutes. |
| Power Source | Must operate independently from main power (battery backup or generator). |
| Exit Sign Visibility | “EXIT” must be at least 6 inches tall, 3/4 inch wide, and always illuminated. |
| Placement | Required along all exit routes, including corridors, stairs, ramps, and at every exit door. |
| Testing & Maintenance | Monthly quick test (30 seconds), annual full test (90 minutes), and records kept for all inspections. |
Common Compliance Issues
Even well-intentioned building owners can run into problems with emergency lighting and exit signs.
Some of the most common issues include:
- Exit signs that are too dim, not working, or blocked from view
- Emergency lights that fail to last the full 90 minutes during a test
- Inadequate lighting along the entire exit route, especially in stairwells or corners
- Missing or incomplete maintenance records
- Systems that have not been tested regularly
These issues can lead to failed inspections, fines, or worse—putting people at risk during an emergency.
The Importance of Regular Maintenance
Emergency lighting and exit signs are only valuable if they work when you need them. That’s why regular inspections and maintenance are so important. At Keystone Fire and Security, we recommend scheduling monthly visual checks and push tests for all emergency lights and exit signs.
Once a year, a full 90-minute test ensures batteries and lights function for the required duration. Any batteries or bulbs showing signs of wear should be replaced immediately. Keeping detailed records of every inspection, maintenance, and repair is essential for compliance and peace of mind.
The Advantages of LED Technology
If your building still relies on older incandescent or fluorescent emergency lights, it may be time to consider an upgrade.
LED emergency lighting and exit signs offer several key benefits:
- Longer lifespan, which means fewer replacements and less maintenance
- Brighter and more consistent illumination, improving visibility in emergencies
- Lower energy consumption, helping you save on utility costs
- Reliable performance, especially during power outages
Switching to LED systems is a smart investment for both safety and savings.
How Keystone Fire and Security Can Help
Staying compliant with emergency lighting and exit sign codes can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. A commercial fire protection company near Berks County like Keystone Fire and Security can assist in keeping commercial buildings safe and up to code.
Here’s how we support our clients:
- We start with a thorough assessment of your current emergency lighting and exit sign systems.
- Our experts recommend upgrades or new installations where needed, always using high-quality, code-compliant products.
- Our professional team handles installation, ensuring everything is placed correctly and works as it should.
- We offer scheduled maintenance, monthly inspections, and annual testing to keep your systems reliable.
- We keep detailed documentation and compliance records, making fire marshal and insurance inspections stress-free.
- Our support continues with emergency repairs and expert advice whenever you need it.
We work with all types of commercial buildings, from offices and retail stores to warehouses, healthcare centers, and schools. Our goal is to make compliance easy and keep your people safe.
Preparing for Inspections and Emergencies
Don’t wait for a surprise inspection or a real emergency to discover your systems aren’t working.
Here are a few steps you can take to stay prepared:
- Review your facility’s emergency lighting and exit sign layout to make sure all exit routes are covered.
- Schedule regular maintenance and testing with a trusted provider like Keystone Fire and Security.
- Train your staff on emergency procedures and the importance of keeping exit routes clear at all times.
- Keep inspection logs and maintenance records up to date and ready for review.
Whether it’s fire suppression system repair in the Lehigh Valley, or the simple changing of batteries in an emergency lighting apparatus, being proactive not only keeps you compliant but also builds confidence among your employees and visitors.
Lighting the Way Towards Increased Safety and Compliance
Emergency lighting and exit signs are more than just a code requirement—they are a crucial part of your building’s life safety system. Understanding what the codes require and partnering with experts like Keystone Fire and Security ensures your facility is always ready for an emergency.
If you need help assessing, upgrading, or maintaining your emergency lighting and exit signs, reach out to Keystone Fire and Security today. Our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way, from code compliance to ongoing support. With the right systems in place, you can keep your people safe, your business running, and your mind at ease, no matter what happens.