Exit Sign Guide for Small Businesses

If you own or manage a business, exit signs might not always be top of mind—until an emergency occurs. Exit signs serve a critical role in guiding occupants to safety. Whether you're running a small warehouse, office, storefront, or service shop, understanding exit sign requirements can help small business owners navigate compliance responsibilities. This guide explores general OSHA requirements, sign placement considerations, and key building code standards to help support informed decisions.

Exit signs are more than just a formality. They help people find their way out of a building safely during a fire, power outage, or other emergency. And because they’re considered life safety equipment, they’re regulated at both the federal and local levels.

Two main sources govern exit sign standards in most workplaces.

• OSHA: Covers workplace safety regulations
• NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code): Provides building code guidance for fire protection and egress

OSHA outlines clear expectations under 29 CFR 1910.37(b). Here's what small business owners should know.

• Signs must be visible and unblocked. Any doorway that leads to an exit needs to be clearly marked.
• Signs must be illuminated at all times. Whether powered by building electricity or a backup system, exit signs need to stay lit, especially during an emergency.
• Letter size matters. OSHA requires characters at least 6" tall so people can read them from a distance.
• Battery backup is required. In the event of a power outage, signs should stay illuminated for at least 90 minutes.

Proper placement is just as important as having exit signs in the first place. Here’s a quick breakdown of typical building code exit sign requirements (based on NFPA 101 and many local codes). Exit signs should be:

• Mounted above or next to every exit door
• Placed in hallways leading to exits, especially if the path turns or isn't obvious
• Positioned at a height and location where the signs can’t be missed
• Spaced out so that at least one sign is visible from anywhere along the exit route. As a general practice, it may be helpful to assess exit routes from the viewpoint of occupants to ensure visibility and clarity during emergencies.

Many small businesses run into compliance issues with exit signs, especially when facilities are older or were retrofitted over time. Common issues include:

• Signs that are partially blocked by shelving or decorations
• Signs that aren’t wired to backup power
• Burned-out or dim lights
• Missing directional signs in hallways or large open areas

Not all exit signs are the same, and some models may be more suitable depending on your facility's layout or power access.

• LED Exit Signs: Long-lasting and energy-efficient. Commonly used in many commercial interiors.
• Photoluminescent Signs: Don’t require power; they charge with ambient light. Useful for areas where wiring is difficult.
• Combination Exit/Emergency Lights: Two-in-one units that light the way and mark the exit. Commonly used in hallways and exit paths.

Exit signs need more than just a one-time install. They require ongoing attention beyond installation. Here’s a basic maintenance approach that small business owners may consider.

• Monthly: Check that every sign is lit, not blocked, and not damaged.
• Annually: Test the backup battery or lighting system for 90 minutes (as recommended by NFPA 101).
• Keep records: Simple inspection logs may assist with demonstrating that maintenance practices are in place, particularly during inspections.

As a small business owner, you're juggling many responsibilities. Staying informed about exit sign code requirements can support overall emergency preparedness and regulatory compliance. From placement and illumination to ongoing maintenance, understanding these requirements is key. Zoro offers a variety of exit sign options that are designed to meet general national standards, helping you find appropriate solutions for your facility.

Product Compliance and Suitability

The statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions. Portions of this article were generated in part by ChatGPT, and edited by a member of the Zoro team.