Article by Stephen Morshead – Inspections Specialist

In moments of crisis, whether it’s a fire, power outage, or other emergencies, clear and functional exit signs can mean the difference between life and death. These signs guide occupants to safety, aiding in the swift evacuation of a building. However, their effectiveness relies heavily on regular inspection, testing, and maintenance. Neglecting these crucial tasks can compromise safety standards and put lives at risk.

Inspection

Regular inspections of emergency and exit signs are the cornerstone of ensuring their functionality. Inspections should be conducted according to regulatory standards, which may vary depending on the location and type of building. Typically, inspections involve checking for:

1. Visibility: Are the signs clearly visible from all required vantage points? Factors such as lighting conditions and obstructions must be considered.
2. Illumination: Are the signs adequately illuminated? This includes verifying the functionality of light sources such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or incandescent bulbs.
3. Legibility: Are the text, symbols, and arrows on the signs easily readable? Fading, dirt, or damage can impair legibility and must be addressed promptly.
4. Placement: Are the signs installed in the correct locations, including above exits, along exit paths, and at stairwells? Incorrect placement can confuse occupants during an emergency.

Regular inspections ensure that any issues with visibility, illumination, legibility, or placement are identified and promptly addressed before they compromise safety.

Testing

Testing emergency and exit signs involves more than visual inspections. It requires verifying the functionality of all components by a Fire Alarm Company including power sources and backup systems. Key aspects of testing include:

1. Functional Testing: Regularly test each sign to ensure that it illuminates properly when activated. This may involve manually triggering the emergency lighting system or simulating power outages to test backup batteries.
2. Battery Testing: If the signs are equipped with battery backup systems, test these batteries according to manufacturer guidelines. Ensure that they are capable of providing illumination for the required duration during power outages.
3. Electrical Systems: Inspect the electrical wiring and connections powering the signs. Any signs of damage or degradation should be addressed promptly to prevent electrical failures.

By conducting regular testing, facility managers can identify and address potential issues with emergency and exit signs before they compromise safety during an actual emergency.

Annual Emergency / Exit light Inspection – Per NFPA 101

1. Functional Testing – Functional testing shall be conducted annually for not less than 1 ½ hours if the emergency lighting is battery powered.

Maintenance

Maintenance is the proactive aspect of ensuring the longevity and reliability of emergency and exit signs. It involves routine tasks aimed at preserving the functionality of the signs, such as:

1. Cleaning: Regularly clean signs to remove dust, dirt, or other debris that may obscure visibility or diminish illumination.
2. Replacement of Components: Over time, components such as bulbs, batteries, or protective covers may wear out and require replacement. Establish a schedule for replacing these components to maintain optimal performance.
3. Repairs: Address any damage to signs promptly. This may involve replacing cracked lenses, repairing electrical connections, or realigning misaligned signs.
4. Documentation: Maintain detailed records of inspections, testing, and maintenance activities. This documentation serves as proof of compliance with regulatory requirements and can aid in identifying trends or recurring issues.

In emergencies, every second counts. Functional emergency and exit signs are critical lifelines that guide occupants to safety. Regular inspection, testing, and maintenance are essential to ensure that these signs perform as intended when needed most. By prioritizing the upkeep of emergency and exit signs, facility managers can uphold safety standards, mitigate risks, and ultimately save lives.