We all know how load shedding and unpredictable power cuts can throw a proper spanner in the works—especially here in Cape Town. One minute you’re cracking on with lunch service, the next you’re literally in the dark. Whether you’re running a guesthouse in Sea Point, managing a retail store in Claremont, or simply want to keep your office compliant and safe, having reliable lighting in emergencies is non-negotiable. That’s why today, I want to chat about something often overlooked, but seriously important: LED exit signs.
Over the years at Future Light, we’ve helped kit out everything from small cafés in Kalk Bay to warehouses out in Bellville. One of the most common mistakes we come across is businesses installing generic, non-compliant exit lighting—or worse, none at all. As a lighting supplier with over 16 years of experience in the South African market, we make it our mission to simplify compliant lighting for every work and living space in the Mother City and beyond.
Key Takeaways
- Exit signs are required by SA law in most commercial and public buildings
- LED signs offer long life, low energy use, and minimal maintenance
- Install signs above exit doors, close to stairwells or corridors
- LED options with built-in battery backup ensure operation during load shedding
- Look for LED variants with arrows or custom legends for clarity
- Reliable LED exit signs improve safety and compliance for years to come
Why Exit Lighting Is a Legal & Safety Essential in Cape Town
Understanding South African Regulations
In South Africa, the building code (SANS 10400-T) requires that all commercial, public, and certain residential buildings must have emergency lighting, including clearly visible exit signage. This means if your premises hosts the public or your staff in any way, proper LED exit signs aren't only a smart idea—they’re legally required.
How LED Options Make Compliance Simpler
LED exit signs have become the standard choice thanks to their energy efficiency and longevity. Unlike older fluorescent models, LEDs last up to 10 times longer and require very little maintenance—a relief when staffing and maintenance budgets are tight.
Local Authority Inspections in Cape Town
Over the years, we’ve encountered many local businesses caught off guard during fire safety or building inspections. More often than not, it’s the little things—an unlit exit sign, no battery backup, or incorrect placement—that lead to a non-compliant rating. Trust us: an LED exit sign today saves headaches down the road.
Rather install a compliant LED exit sign now than face last-minute fines or shutdowns during inspections.
Choosing the Right LED Exit Sign for Your Space
Directional vs. Non-Directional Models
Some exit signs come with left or right arrows, which makes a massive difference in guiding people toward the correct escape route. In a complex building layout, these directional signs can literally be lifesavers.
Presence of Battery Backup
This one’s a deal breaker. Always opt for a unit with a rechargeable battery or UPS. A sign that only lights up when Eskom is running? Not helpful during an emergency. You can browse our Rechargeable Lights collection for backup gear and signage.
Wall Mount, Hanging or Recessed Options?
Depending on your ceiling height and corridor layout, you might prefer hanging (suspended) signs over flat wall-mounted ones. Recessed signs offer a sleek architectural look, ideal for modern buildings with minimalist designs.
Pick an LED exit sign that suits your building layout—don’t risk confusing signage.
Best Areas for Installation in Cape Town Buildings
Near Exit Doors
This one's obvious, but you'd be surprised how often we see signs installed two or three metres off. Make sure your sign is directly above or beside the actual exit—not just “somewhere in the general area.”
Hallways and Staircases
Corridors and stairwells in buildings like offices, malls, and apartment blocks must have visual direction cues. Even if the route is familiar during the day, things feel very different when the lights go out.
Location Height Guidelines
Signs should be mounted at least 2.1 metres high, but low enough to keep them legible even in low light or smoke conditions. If your fitting is higher, consider a suspended option for visibility.
Always mount exit signs where they’ll actually be seen during chaos—not where they “look nice.”
Benefits of LED Exit Signs vs Traditional Fluorescents
Energy Efficiency
LEDs draw just a fraction of the energy—a bonus when paired with our Battery Backup systems during load shedding or power outages.
Longevity and Lower Maintenance
We’re talking 50,000 operational hours on average. No burnt out tubes, no flickering—in translation: no drama. Ideal for long-term owners of guesthouses or public buildings across the Cape.
Battery Efficiency and Automatic Testing
Many higher-end LED exit signs automatically test battery function. While not required for all settings, it’s a major win for large buildings where checking every sign manually would take ages.
LED exit signs not only last longer—they’re also gentler on your wallet over time.
Working Around Load Shedding in Cape Town
Choose Units with Lithium Battery Backup
Many of our customers in areas like Blouberg or Stellenbosch have to cope with regular blackouts. Look for lithium-ion batteries built into your exit sign—they charge quickly and last longer than conventional sealed lead acids.
Optional Solar-Assist Devices
Looking to go fully off-grid? Consider pairing your signage or emergency lighting with one of our solar light kits. Ideal for rural or remote areas where power supply is unreliable.
Test Your Setup Monthly
Just like your geyser timer or alarm system, test your exit signs monthly for peace of mind. Many LED units have a small test button—simply hold it and confirm the sign lights up during “emergency mode.”
Load shedding doesn’t have to mean compromised safety—battery-backed LED signage is the answer.
Conclusion
If you’ve been putting off updating your emergency signage—this is your nudge. Whether for legal compliance, staff protection, or guest peace of mind, LED exit signs deliver on both practicality and affordability. Explore our full collection of rechargeable lighting, check out signage-compatible backup systems, or learn how to enhance your exits in our related blog focused on motion sensor lights for added security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are LED exit signs mandatory in all buildings in Cape Town?
A: They’re required in commercial, shared residential, and public-use buildings. Check SANS 10400-T for specifics.
Q2: Can LED exit signs run during load shedding?
A: Yes—if they include a built-in rechargeable battery or are connected to a backup power supply.
Q3: How long do LED exit sign batteries typically last?
A: Most lithium batteries last 3–5 years, with some lasting up to 8 depending on usage and environment.
Q4: Where should I place my exit sign in a small office?
A: Directly above the main exit door, and in any hallway that connects offices to exits. Make sure it’s visible.
Q5: Do I need a licensed installer to fit an exit light?
A: For hardwired signs, yes—you need a qualified electrician. Battery-operated signs are more DIY-friendly.
Q6: Is there a solar-powered LED exit sign available?
A: While not common, solar solutions can work in remote settings by pairing solar kits with battery-powered signage.
Q7: Can I customise my LED exit signs (e.g., for left/right arrows)?
A: Absolutely. Options are available with interchangeable direction panels or factory-fitted arrows.
Q8: Do LED exit signs need regular maintenance?
A: Minimal upkeep—just monthly testing and occasional battery replacement as needed.
