Why Illuminated Exit Signs Matter More Than You Think in South African Buildings
In South Africa, everyday safety often lives in the little things—whether it's checking the gate remote battery before rush-hour traffic, or making sure the braai is properly extinguished after sundown. Among those vital but often overlooked details are illuminated exit signs. These glowing markers don’t just tick compliance boxes—they guide us to safety when we need it most.
If you’re managing a retail store, restaurant, medical clinic, or even a private school, having clear exit signage is legally required and practically non-negotiable. Yet many South Africans either purchase the wrong type or skip key features like battery backup. Let’s break down what really matters when considering an illuminated exit sign for your space.
First off, not all exit signs are created equal. A common misconception is that any glowing sign will do—but regulations around visibility, electrical connections, and battery duration exist for a reason. South African building and fire codes require that an exit sign remains clearly visible in all lighting conditions, including during a blackout. That’s why these products must have built-in emergency battery power that lasts at least 90 minutes. If your property’s signs don’t meet this minimum? It might be time to revisit your lighting checklist.
Another issue we often see at electrical fit-out stage is poor sign placement. Illuminated exit signs must be mounted above doors, along corridors, or near exit pathways where they are unmissable—not hidden behind shelving, décor, or outdated signage. A quick maintenance tip? Include your exit signs in monthly dusting rounds and test their lights routinely, much like you’d test smoke alarms in your home.
Lastly, while exit lights might not sit in your shopping cart next to stylish downlights or the latest ceiling fans, they are among the most critical lights in your building. They help save lives. And as lighting professionals, we believe beauty and safety can coexist—even in compliance gear.
Key Takeaways
- Many overlook the legal and safety importance of illuminated exit signs
- Battery backup must last at least 90 minutes to meet emergency requirements
- Clear placement above or near exit pathways is crucial
- Provides peace of mind during emergencies and improves egress safety
- Choose durable and efficient LED signage bulbs for long-term use
- Regular inspection extends the lifespan and ensures code compliance
Use the tool below to calculate how many illuminated exit signs you may need for your building layout.
Illuminated Exit Sign Calculator
This simple tool helps building owners and facility managers estimate the number of illuminated exit signs required in a space. Just enter the total number of floors and exit routes in your building, and we’ll provide a recommended baseline—always confirm with your fire inspector for final requirements.
Proper placement makes or breaks exit sign effectiveness—install where they're visible during any situation.
Don’t delay annual inspections. A dusty or unlit exit sign could cost lives during a real emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an illuminated exit sign?
An illuminated exit sign is a permanently fixed sign powered by electricity that lights up the word "EXIT" and any directional indicators to clearly mark exit routes.
Are illuminated exit signs required by law?
Yes, most buildings are required by local fire codes and safety regulations to have illuminated exit signs to ensure clear egress in emergencies; requirements vary by location.
How long must the emergency lighting backup for exit signs last?
Emergency lighting, including illuminated exit signs, must have battery backup that powers them for at least 90 minutes to allow safe evacuation during power failures.
What colors are illuminated exit signs available in?
Common colors for exit signs in the U.S. are red and green, with some municipalities specifying the required color based on local regulations.
How often do illuminated exit signs need to be inspected?
Exit signs should be inspected regularly by certified technicians to ensure they are fully operational and meet safety standards.
What maintenance is required for illuminated exit signs?
Maintenance includes cleaning dust and debris from the sign, checking electrical connections, replacing bulbs or LEDs as needed, and testing battery backups.
Do illuminated exit signs have to comply with energy standards?
Yes, illuminated exit signs must comply with U.S. Department of Energy energy conservation standards and testing procedures.
Can I install any illuminated exit sign, or are there specific installation requirements?
Installation must follow local fire and safety codes, ensuring signs are clearly visible and placed along exit routes; consulting a fire protection expert is recommended.
Wrap up your emergency lighting strategy by browsing our full collection. If you're just getting started, check out something like the White IP20 Downlighter for complementary corridor lighting. Learn more safety tips and lighting best practices in our related blog.
