Fire Exit Signs

British Standards and legislation

In the UK, fire exit signs must comply with British Standards such as BS ISO 3864-1, which outlines safety signage requirements, including considerations for viewing distances. This standard ensures that signs are legible from the necessary distance, considering factors such as the size of the premises and the number of occupants. Additionally, fire safety signage must meet the internationally recognised ISO 7010 standard, which governs the symbols used, including the familiar running man symbol which is known as the fire exit symbol.

Article 24 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 places a legal responsibility on building owners or managers (often referred to as the "responsible persons") to enable the safety of all occupants. This includes the proper placement and maintenance of fire exit signage to aid in safe evacuation.

Photoluminescent fire exit signs

Photoluminescent fire exit signs are a highly effective solution, especially in low-light or smoke-filled conditions, where visibility may be compromised. These signs absorb and store light energy from a light source and, when the power fails or lighting is obstructed, they glow in the dark, leading the way to safety. This feature is vital during power outages or in environments filled with thick smoke, meaning occupants can still find the nearest exit.

Importance of unobstructed fire exit routes

Fire exit routes must always remain free from obstructions. A blocked or partially blocked exit route could cause delays in evacuation, endangering lives. Keeping these pathways clear means that people can move quickly and efficiently to safety. Fire safety plans should include regular inspections to check for any obstructions or hazards that could hinder an evacuation.

Directional messaging on fire exit signs

Fire exit signs often include directional elements, such as arrows and the universally recognised "running man" symbol. These symbols point the way to the nearest exit and provide clear, unambiguous instructions. They help to prevent confusion and help everyone to follow the correct escape route during an emergency.

Fire exit signs as part of fire safety preparedness

Fire exit signs are a fundamental element of fire safety preparedness in any workplace or public space. They help staff, visitors, and members of the public to evacuate safely, reducing the risk of injury or death. Properly placed, maintained and visible fire exit signage is a legal requirement, but more importantly, it is a moral responsibility for the safety of all building occupants.

Duties of building owners and managers

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, building owners or managers must install and maintain the appropriate fire exit signage. This includes carrying out regular risk assessments and updating signs as necessary. Failure to comply with these duties can result in legal penalties, but more importantly, it puts lives at risk.

Compliant and effective signage from SafetyBuyer

Choice, value, and compliance are guaranteed with SafetyBuyer. All our health and safety signs are fully compliant with current UK legislation and best practice guidelines, including the internationally recognised ISO 7010 standard. Clear health and safety signs in the workplace communicate vital safety messages, warn staff of potential dangers and raise safety awareness.

Optimising viewing distances for fire exit safety signs

When selecting fire exit safety signs, several critical factors must be considered to make sure they are easily visible and comprehensible. These factors are thoroughly outlined in BS ISO 3864-1, and include:

• Viewing distance: choose a sign size that is appropriate for the maximum distance from which it will be viewed. The larger the distance, the bigger the sign should be to remain legible.

• Viewing angle: consider the angle at which people will view the sign. Signs should be placed so that they are visible from as many vantage points as possible.

• Lighting conditions: Adequate lighting enables clear visibility, especially in low-light environments. Signs should be well-lit or made from photoluminescent material where necessary.

• Vision impairments: factor in potential visual impairments, such as poor eyesight or colour blindness, which can affect the ability to read and interpret signs. High-contrast colours and symbols help to improve visibility for everyone.

• Room layout: the placement of furniture and other objects can obstruct a clear line of sight to safety signs. Make sure signs are positioned where they will not be hidden or blocked.

• Height and positioning: mount signs at an optimal height - typically between 1.7 and 2 metres from the floor - so that they are within the natural line of sight. This increases the likelihood that the sign will be seen in an emergency.

By carefully considering these factors, you can significantly improve the effectiveness of fire exit safety signs, helping them to serve their critical purpose during an emergency effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a fire exit sign?

A fire exit sign indicates the direction of the nearest exit in case of an emergency, helping people safely evacuate a building.

How many fire exit signs do I need?

The number of signs depends on the layout and size of your premises. All exit routes should be clearly marked, ensuring visibility from any point in the building.

Where should fire exit signs be placed?

Fire exit signs should be placed at every decision point along the exit route. This includes fire exit door signs on doorways, and then fire exit signages in corridors and stairwells.

What are the regulations on fire exit signs?

Fire exit signs must comply with British Standards (BS ISO 3864-1) and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, which mandates proper signage for emergency exits.

What colour are fire exit signs? 

In the UK, fire exit signs are typically green with white text and symbols, indicating a safe condition.

What size fire exit signs do I need? 

The size of fire exit signs is determined by the viewing distance required. Larger premises or areas where the sign needs to be visible from a greater distance require larger signs.

Do fire exit signs need to be illuminated or photoluminescent? 

Fire exit signs must either be illuminated (by emergency lighting) or photoluminescent to optimise visibility during a power failure or in low-light conditions.

What material should I choose? 

Fire exit signs can be made from various materials, including rigid plastic, aluminium or photoluminescent materials. The choice depends on your specific environment and whether you need the signs to glow in the dark.

Implementing the proper selection, placement and maintenance of fire exit signage is vital for effective fire safety planning.

We have 100s of fire exit and emergency exit signs available from our stock with next-day delivery that can support a vast range of businesses and organisations to meet their legal obligations and keep their premises safe, productive and looking their best.

Call us today on 0800 043 0161 or email us at sales@safetybuyer.com to discuss your fire exit signage requirements.