Exit signs are part of the life-safety path that helps occupants find a way out during normal conditions and emergencies. The right sign is not only a product decision; it is a visibility, power, mounting, and jurisdiction decision.
Code note: This guide is a practical purchasing and planning aid, not a code determination. Confirm final requirements with the authority having jurisdiction, the adopted code edition, and the project documents.
Core exit sign questions
- Is an exit sign required at this doorway, corridor, stair, or change in direction?
- Is the sign visible from the normal path of travel?
- Does the sign need arrows or a directional indicator?
- Does the project require red or green letters, a specific letter height, or a specific housing type?
- Does the sign need battery backup or another emergency power source?
Illumination and visibility
OSHA requires exits to be clearly visible and marked by an Exit sign, and it includes requirements for illumination and legibility. Directional signage is important when the exit or discharge path is not immediately apparent. A sign hidden by decor, shelving, door swings, or equipment can fail the practical visibility test even if the product itself is correct.
Arrows, colors, and face count
Letter color and arrow configuration should follow the project drawings, local practice, and AHJ direction. Confirm whether the sign is single-face or double-face, whether it needs field-selectable arrows, and whether the mounting is wall, ceiling, end, or pendant. For a broad selection path, start with commercial exit signs.
Battery backup and power
Many commercial exit signs include battery backup or are paired with emergency power. Some projects use LED signs, photoluminescent exit signs, tritium exit signs, or exit sign and emergency light combos depending on power availability, environment, and maintenance preference.
Selection checklist
- Confirm sign location and viewing direction.
- Choose face count and mounting method.
- Confirm red or green legend requirement.
- Check voltage and battery-backup requirements.
- Use wet-location or specialty housings where exposure requires them.
- Record existing model numbers for replacements.
Need help matching products to a project list? Send counts, photos, voltage, mounting notes, and any existing model numbers through Request a Quote.
Official references
- OSHA 1910.37: Exit route lighting and marking
- OSHA 1910.36: Design and construction requirements for exit routes
- NFPA 101 Life Safety Code
Related guides
- Emergency Lighting Requirements Explained for Commercial Buildings
- Exit Sign and Emergency Light Combos vs Separate Fixtures
- Wet Location Emergency Lights and Exit Signs Guide
- Emergency Light and Exit Sign Testing Checklist