A green fire exit sign is placed on the ceiling along the dimly lit corridor and there is green exit sign on the exit door.

When is Exit and Emergency Lighting Required?

Ensuring the safety of occupants in a building is a paramount concern for any property owner or manager. One critical aspect of safety is the provision of adequate exit and emergency lighting. This lighting guides people to safety during emergencies, such as fires, power outages, or natural disasters. But when exactly is exit and emergency lighting required in a building? Here, we explore the key regulations and best practices that dictate these requirements.

Building Codes and Regulations

The primary exit and emergency lighting requirements derive from local building codes and regulations. These codes are usually based on national or international standards and vary by type of building and its use. Some of the most influential codes include:

  • International Building Code (IBC)
    • This code specifies that exit and emergency lighting must be installed in all commercial buildings, multi-family residential buildings, and any other structures where people may need to exit in an emergency.
  • National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 101 – Life Safety Code 
    • This standard provides detailed requirements for exit and emergency lighting, including specifications for illumination levels, duration, and maintenance.
  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
    • OSHA mandates that workplaces have adequate exit routes and emergency lighting to ensure safe egress during an emergency.

Types of Buildings

The need for exit and emergency lighting can vary depending on the type of building. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Commercial Buildings
    • Office buildings, retail spaces, and warehouses must have exit and emergency lighting to ensure employees and customers can safely exit during an emergency.
  • Property Management Buildings
    • Multi-family dwellings, such as apartments and condos, require exit and emergency lighting in common areas like hallways, stairwells, and exits.
  • Institutional Buildings
    • Hospitals, schools, and other facilities that serve vulnerable populations need extensive exit and emergency lighting to ensure the safety of occupants who may require assistance.
  • Industrial Buildings
    • Factories and other industrial sites must have robust emergency lighting systems to guide workers to safety, especially in areas with high-risk machinery or hazardous materials.

Specific Requirements

  • Illumination Levels
    • The lighting must provide a minimum level of illumination. For instance, the NFPA 101 specifies a minimum of 1 foot-candle (10.8 lux) at floor level along exit paths.
  • Duration
    • Emergency lighting must remain on for a minimum duration during a power outage. Typically, this duration is 90 minutes, ensuring enough time for occupants to evacuate safely.
  • Backup Power
    • Exit and emergency lights must be connected to a reliable backup power source, such as batteries or generators, to function during a power failure.
  • Placement
    • Exit signs and emergency lights should be strategically placed to cover all exit routes, including corridors, stairwells, ramps, and exit doors. They should be visible from any point within the exit path.

Maintenance and Testing

Regular maintenance and testing are crucial to ensure that exit and emergency lighting systems are functioning correctly. Building owners and managers should:

  • Conduct Monthly Tests
    • Test the integrity of both light output and battery for a duration of 30 seconds, to ensure proper functionality.
  • Annual Full Tests
    • During an annual inspection, we will conduct a comprehensive 90-minute full simulation test on your exit lights. Additionally, they will be cleaned, checked for corrosion or damage, and have beam adjustments made if necessary. After passing inspection, a sticker will be applied to meet record-keeping requirements.

Best Practices

  • Regular Inspections
    • Our Silco technician can perform monthly inspections. However, we strongly recommend that as a minimum requirement, a licensed Silco technician conducts an annual inspection and testing.
  • Upgrades
    • Consider upgrading older lighting systems to modern, energy-efficient LED solutions that offer better performance and lower maintenance costs.
  • Employee Training
    • Train employees on emergency evacuation procedures and ensure they are familiar with the locations of exit routes and emergency lighting.

Takeaways

Exit and emergency lighting is not just a regulatory requirement; it is a critical component of building safety that can save lives in an emergency. At Silco, we understand the vital role that exit and emergency lighting plays. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate and comply with intricate regulations, ensuring that your building meets all safety standards.

From initial installation to ongoing maintenance and testing, we provide comprehensive services tailored to your specific needs. Trust Silco to enhance the safety and security of your property, ensuring peace of mind for you and protection for everyone inside. Contact us today to learn more about our reliable solutions for exit and emergency lighting.