Emergency exit signs are a critical component of safety infrastructure in any building. They help guide occupants to the nearest exit during an emergency, such as a fire, power outage, or other situations that require an immediate evacuation. In this article, we will delve into the meaning of emergency exit signs, explore the costs associated with their installation, and provide tips on how to fix them if they malfunction.

What is the Meaning of an Emergency Exit Sign?

An emergency exit sign is a vital safety device designed to indicate the location of the nearest exit in a building. The purpose of these signs is to ensure that all individuals, whether familiar with the building or not, can quickly and safely find their way out during an exit sign emergency.

Emergency exit signs are usually illuminated, featuring bright, contrasting colors such as green and white or red and white. The signs often include a pictogram of a running person and an arrow indicating the direction of the exit. In many countries, regulations mandate the use of emergency exit signs in commercial, industrial, and public buildings.

In addition to providing clear directional guidance, emergency exit signs are designed to remain visible even in low-light or no-light conditions. This is why they often come equipped with backup batteries or are connected to emergency lighting systems to ensure they stay lit during a power outage.

How Much Does it Cost to Install an Emergency Exit Sign?

The cost of installing an emergency exit sign varies depending on several factors, such as the type of sign, the building’s layout, and the complexity of the installation. Here’s a breakdown of the factors that can influence the cost:

Type of Sign:

Standard Exit Signs: Basic non-illuminated signs made from materials like plastic or aluminum are the most cost-effective. Prices for these signs generally range from $10 to $50. However, these signs are not ideal for buildings where low-light or power outage situations are likely.

Illuminated Exit Signs with Emergency Lights: Signs that are illuminated, either by LED or incandescent bulbs, tend to cost more. These signs can range from $50 to $300, depending on their size, material, and lighting technology.

Photoluminescent Exit Signs: These signs are charged by ambient light and glow in the dark. They require no electricity or batteries, making them an energy-efficient choice. Prices range from $50 to $200.

Exit Signs with Emergency Lights: Combination signs that include both an exit indicator and emergency lighting can cost anywhere from $100 to $500, depending on their features, such as battery backup and weatherproofing for outdoor use.

Installation Costs:

Labor Costs: Hiring a licensed electrician to install an emergency exit sign typically costs between $100 and $300 per sign, depending on the complexity of the job and the hourly rate of the electrician. The installation process may involve wiring the sign to the building's electrical system, which can increase costs.

Permit Fees: In some locations, obtaining a permit for electrical work may be required, which could add an additional $50 to $200 to the overall cost.

Inspection Fees: After installation, some local regulations require a safety inspection, which may cost around $50 to $150, depending on the jurisdiction.

Ongoing Maintenance Costs:

Battery Replacement: For exit sign with emergency lights that use batteries, the cost of battery replacement can range from $20 to $50 per battery, depending on the type and model.

Bulb Replacement: The cost of replacing bulbs for illuminated signs varies depending on whether they are incandescent or LED. Incandescent bulbs are cheaper upfront but require more frequent replacement, while LEDs have a higher initial cost but last longer and are more energy-efficient.

Testing and Inspection: Regular testing and maintenance to ensure the sign functions properly may also incur additional costs.

Overall, the total cost to install an emergency exit sign, including purchase, installation, permits, and inspection, can range from $150 to $1,000 or more, depending on the specific requirements and circumstances.

How Do I Fix My Emergency Exit Sign?

If your emergency exit sign is malfunctioning, it's crucial to address the issue promptly to maintain the safety and compliance of your building. Here are some common problems and steps to fix them:

Sign Is Not Illuminating:

Check the Power Supply: Ensure that the sign is connected to a working power source. If it’s hard-wired, check the circuit breaker to see if it has tripped. Reset the breaker if necessary.

Inspect the Battery: Many emergency exit signs have backup batteries that keep them illuminated during a power outage. Check if the battery is functioning. If the sign does not light up when the power is off, the battery may need replacement. Batteries are usually located in a compartment on the back of the sign and can be replaced by unscrewing the compartment cover and inserting a new battery.

Examine the Bulbs or LEDs: For signs using incandescent or LED bulbs, check if the bulbs are burned out. Replace them if necessary. For LED signs, it's less common for the lights to burn out, but it can still happen. If the LED lights are out, the entire LED board may need to be replaced.

Dim or Flickering Lights:

Check the Voltage: Use a multimeter to ensure the sign is receiving the correct voltage. Low voltage can cause dim or flickering lights.

Inspect for Loose Connections: Open the sign’s housing and check for any loose or disconnected wires. Tighten or reconnect any wires that appear loose.

Replace the Battery: If the lights are dim or flickering, it could indicate that the backup battery is nearing the end of its life. Replacing the battery may resolve the issue.

Emergency Lights Not Working:

Test the Lights: Many emergency exit signs with emergency lights have a test button. Press and hold this button to test the lights. If the lights do not turn on, it may indicate a battery or bulb problem.

Replace Bulbs or Batteries: As with the main sign illumination, if the emergency lights fail to turn on during testing, check the bulbs and batteries. Replace any components that are not functioning.

Sign Does Not Pass Inspection:

Check Compliance: Ensure that your emergency exit sign meets local building codes and regulations. This may involve checking the brightness, placement, and battery backup requirements.

Professional Servicing: If you’re unable to identify or fix the issue, consider hiring a professional electrician or technician who specializes in emergency lighting systems. They can diagnose and repair more complex problems.

Sign Housing Damage:

Repair or Replace the Housing: If the sign's housing is cracked or broken, it may need to be repaired or replaced. Damaged housing can expose internal components to dust, moisture, or other elements that could cause the sign to fail.

Conclusion

Emergency exit signs are a crucial part of a building's safety plan, providing clear guidance to occupants in emergencies. Understanding their meaning, the costs involved in their installation, and how to fix common problems ensures that these vital signs are always functional and compliant with safety regulations.

Maintaining your emergency exit signs is essential for ensuring the safety of everyone in your building. If you need reliable and high-quality emergency exit signs or have further questions about their installation and maintenance, we recommend Yuanhe. You can contact them at kate@worldyuanhe.com or helen@worldyuanhe.com for more information and professional guidance.

By investing in the right emergency exit signs and ensuring they are properly installed and maintained, you contribute significantly to the overall safety and security of your building’s occupants.

Emergency Exit Sign

exit sign with emergency lights

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