Emergency LED Exit Signs for Commercial & Industrial Facilities
What Are Emergency LED Exit Signs?
Emergency LED exit signs are dedicated luminaires designed to provide clearly visible egress indicators during power failures, fire alarm conditions, or emergency evacuations. Built with efficient LED technology, these signs offer long life, low maintenance, and high visibility under a variety of lighting conditions. Unlike non-emergency signage, certified emergency exit signs incorporate battery backup systems, fail-safe circuitry, and photometric performance that meets life safety codes such as NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code) and IBC (International Building Code).
Life-safety equipment of this type operates as a critical component within coordinated commercial lighting systems.
When Should Emergency LED Exit Signs Be Used?
Emergency LED exit signs are required in virtually all commercial and industrial occupancies where safety codes mandate clearly marked egress paths. Typical environments include:
• Warehouses and distribution centers
• Office buildings and lobbies
• Retail facilities
• Hotels and hospitality spaces
• Educational institutions
• Healthcare facilities
• Manufacturing and light industrial spaces
• Parking garages and multi-level facilities
These signs are indispensable where occupant safety and code compliance during an emergency are non-negotiable. They remain illuminated for a specified minimum runtime (commonly 90 minutes) during power loss to support safe evacuations.
Core Specifications & Performance Considerations
Key specifications for emergency LED exit signs include:
✔ Battery backup runtime: minimum 90 minutes (code standard)
✔ Certification: UL 924 / NFPA compliance
✔ Visibility range: readable at designated distances based on mounting height
✔ Color options: Red or green legends (depending on local code)
✔ Mounting flexibility: wall, ceiling, or end-mount configurations
✔ Self-diagnostics: optional circuitry for automatic testing and reporting
LED exit signs are engineered to maintain consistent luminance over time, consume minimal energy during normal operation, and provide reliable emergency illumination when needed most.
Industrial & Commercial Applications
Emergency LED exit signs are utilized wherever building occupancy and egress routes must be clearly marked for safety and compliance. Typical use cases include:
• Egress corridors and stairwells
• Assembly areas
• Warehousing and racking zones
• Breakrooms and personnel spaces
• Exterior exit discharge paths
• Loading docks and truck bays (code permitting)
Their high visibility and code-approved performance make them essential building infrastructure components in both new construction and retrofit projects.
Planning & Selection Considerations
When specifying emergency LED exit signs, consider:
✔ Code compliance: review local and national egress and fire safety codes
✔ Mounting location and visibility: ensure unobstructed sight lines
✔ Battery backup & runtime: meet or exceed minimum safety standards
✔ Test & diagnostics: integrated self-testing reduces maintenance burden
✔ Power feed: coordinate with building electrical plans
Exit signage must be engineered to remain operational during emergencies and routine power interruptions. Proper placement and performance ensure occupant confidence and code adherence.
Comparison Table — Emergency Exit vs Standard Exit vs Combo Signage
| Attribute / Use | Emergency LED Exit Signs | Standard Non-Emergency Exit Signs | Combo Exit/Light Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Backup Power | Yes (battery backup) | No | Yes |
| Code Requirement | Life safety mandated | Not compliant | Life safety mandated |
| Runtime | 90 min+ | N/A | 90 min+ |
| Certification | UL 924 / NFPA | None | UL 924 / NFPA |
| Application | Egress routes & stairwells | Decorative egress indication | Egress + area illumination |
| Visibility | High-contrast LED | Moderate | High-contrast LED |
Technical Standards & Compliance Resources
Emergency LED exit signs are governed by life safety and building codes including:
✔ UL 924 Standard for Emergency Lighting and Power Equipment
✔ NFPA 101 Life Safety Code
✔ IBC – International Building Code egress provisions
✔ Local building and fire codes
These standards define minimum visibility distances, battery backup requirements, testing frequencies, and installation practices. Consulting code summaries and authorities having jurisdiction ensures that signage meets safety and compliance expectations without guesswork.
Available Emergency LED Exit Sign Fixtures
In larger commercial and industrial facilities, emergency LED exit signage is often coordinated with emergency lighting systems and pathway illumination to ensure consistent egress visibility throughout the facility during power outages or alarm conditions.
Edge Lite Emergency Exit Sign
Brand: Ledsion
The Ledsion Edge-Lit Red Exit Sign Light blends style and functionality, offering unmatched versatility. Its sleek design and reliable performance make it ideal for diverse settings, providing clear guidance during emergencies; UL; Prices start at $98.
H3
Brand: Beyond
Running Person Symbol
International standard; 3.5W; Green; 120-347V; 3.6V 2000mAh Ni-Cd Battery; Single and Double Face; UL; Prices start at $150.
ES037
Brand: Ledsion
EZ-snap mounting thermoplastic in white finish; Red or Green LED;
EZ snap-out chevron arrows;
Single and double-sided
90-min emergency illumination;
Prices start at $150.
ESC02 Series
Brand: Ledsion
Combo Exit Sign; ultra-bright white LED; lamp heads, 180 lumens
Single or double-face
Prices start at $250.
ESC03 Series
Brand: ATG
Combo Exit Sign; 5VA flame retardant;
SALIDA faceplate available; UL listed for damp locations;
Test switch and charge indicator;
Prices start at $250.
EML01 Series
Brand: Ledsion
Dual Head Emergency Light
adjustable ultra-bright white
LED lamp heads; 2 X 1.2W lamp
205 lumens; Prices start at $100.
The Importance of Emergency Exit Sign Lights
Emergency exit signs play a crucial role in guiding building occupants to safety during emergencies, such as fires, power outages, or other critical situations. Properly illuminated exit signs ensure that people can quickly and easily locate the nearest exit, even in low-light or smoky conditions. By installing high-quality LED exit signs and emergency exit sign lights, you can significantly improve the safety of your commercial or industrial facility while complying with local fire codes and NFPA 101 requirements. Learn more about guiding people to safety during an emergency with exit signs in our full safety guide.
The Benefits of LED Exit Signs
Upgrading to LED exit signs offers numerous advantages over traditional incandescent or fluorescent exit signs:
- Energy Efficiency: LED exit signs consume significantly less energy compared to conventional exit signs, resulting in reduced energy costs and a lower environmental impact.
- Long Lifespan: With an impressive lifespan of up to 50,000 hours or more, LED exit signs require fewer replacements and minimal maintenance, saving you time and money in the long run.
- Bright and Highly Visible: LED exit signs provide crisp, evenly illuminated lettering that is highly visible from a distance, ensuring that building occupants can easily identify the nearest exit route.
- Reliable Operation: LED exit signs are designed to withstand harsh environments and continue functioning even during power outages, thanks to their battery backup systems.
- Versatile Mounting Options: Our LED exit signs come in a variety of mounting configurations, including surface mount, recessed mount, and pendant mount, allowing you to choose the best option for your specific building layout and requirements.
Choosing the Right Emergency Exit Sign Light
When selecting emergency exit sign lights for your commercial or industrial facility, consider the following factors:
- Compliance with Local Codes: Ensure that your chosen exit signs meet the requirements set by your local fire marshal and comply with NFPA 101 standards for emergency exit lighting.
- Battery Backup: Opt for LED exit signs with reliable battery backup systems that can provide at least 90 minutes of illumination during power failures, as required by most building codes.
- Single or Double Face: Determine whether you need single-face or double-face exit signs based on the visibility requirements and location of your exit routes.
- Color and Lettering: Choose between red or green LED exit signs with clear, legible lettering that meets the standards for your jurisdiction.
- Combination Units: Consider exit sign and emergency light combo units that provide both exit indication and emergency illumination, ensuring a well-lit path to safety during evacuations.
Applications for Emergency Exit Sign Lights
Our LED exit signs and emergency exit sign lights are suitable for a wide range of commercial and industrial applications, including:
- Office Buildings: Ensure that employees and visitors can quickly locate and navigate to emergency exits during evacuations with strategically placed exit signs and emergency lighting.
- Retail Stores: Guide customers and staff to safety during emergencies with highly visible LED exit signs and exit sign emergency light combos.
- Schools and Universities: Protect students, faculty, and staff by installing reliable emergency exit sign lights in classrooms, lecture halls, and dormitories.
- Hotels and Hospitality: Provide clear evacuation guidance for guests and employees with LED exit signs and emergency lighting in hallways, stairwells, and common areas.
- Warehouses and Industrial Facilities: Ensure worker safety and OSHA compliance with durable, long-lasting LED exit signs and emergency exit sign lights in manufacturing plants, storage facilities, and distribution centers.
FAQs
Emergency exit signs are an important component of any building, guiding people safely and efficiently in the event of an emergency. There are a variety of questions related to emergency exit signs, including:
Q1. What types of emergency exit signs are available?
A1. These signs come in a variety of forms and materials, including illuminated and non-illuminated signs, vinyl labels, and metal signs. Illuminated signs use either a battery-powered or AC-powered light source to make the sign visible in the event of a power outage. Vinyl labels are less costly but can be easily damaged. Metal signs offer the highest level of durability and visibility. For classified hazardous locations.
Q2. What size signs should be used?
A2. The size of emergency exit signs depends on the area the sign will be displayed. Generally, signs should be at least 6 inches in height for visibility and should be placed at least 4 feet above the floor to avoid any obstructions.
Q3. Are there special regulations regarding emergency exit signs?
A3.Yes. In the United States, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has established some basic standards for emergency exit signs. NFPA 101 requires all exit doors in a building to be marked with a sign stating the direction of the nearest exit. Exits must also be illuminated in case of a power outage. Other regulations may apply depending on the type of establishment and local codes.
Q4. How are emergency exit signs maintained?
A4. The NFPA recommends that emergency exit signs be inspected at least twice a year. This includes checking for any signs of wear or damage, and ensuring all battery-powered units have working batteries. It’s also important to ensure the signs are still clearly visible and in the correct position. If any damage or wear is found, the sign should be replaced immediately.
Enhance Building Safety with Our Emergency Exit Sign Light Solutions
Browse our extensive selection of LED exit signs, emergency exit sign lights, and exit sign emergency light combos designed to enhance the safety and evacuation readiness of your commercial or industrial facility. Our knowledgeable team is dedicated to helping you find the ideal emergency exit lighting solutions to meet your specific needs and comply with local building codes. Contact us today to discuss your project and prioritize the safety of your building’s occupants with top-quality LED exit signs and emergency exit sign lights.