Definition
Emergency Exit Sign
An emergency exit sign is a self-illuminated or externally lit sign displaying the internationally recognised green running-man pictogram (BS ISO 7010 E001/E002) to indicate the direction of emergency escape routes and final exits. Signs must be visible from all points on the escape route, illuminated by the emergency lighting system, and maintained in accordance with BS 5266-1 and the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996.
Terms mentioned in this definition
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View training courseRelevant UK Standards & Legislation
- BS 5266-1:2016Emergency lighting — includes requirements for illuminated exit signs and their maintenance
- BS ISO 7010Graphical symbols — safety colours and safety signs — standardises the running-man exit pictogram
- Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996Requires fire exit signs to use the prescribed pictogram format and be maintained in good order
Related Terms
- Emergency LightingEmergency LightingEmergency lighting is a lighting system that activates automatically on failure of the normal mains supply, providing sufficient illumination to enable safe evacuation of a building. UK law requires emergency lighting in all non-domestic premises, and it must be designed, installed, commissioned, and maintained in accordance with BS 5266-1 by a competent person.View definition
- BS 5266Emergency LightingBS 5266 is the British Standard that governs the design, installation, and maintenance of emergency lighting systems in the UK. Part 1 (BS 5266-1) covers non-domestic premises and specifies categories of emergency lighting, minimum illuminance levels, battery duration requirements, testing regimes, and the competence expected of installers and maintenance engineers.View definition
- Means of EscapeGeneral Fire SafetyMeans of escape are the designated routes — corridors, stairways, emergency exits, and final exit doors — by which building occupants can evacuate safely in a fire without obstruction. Adequate means of escape must be provided in all non-domestic premises under Approved Document B and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, and must be identified and assessed in the fire risk assessment.View definition
- Fire Safety SignageGeneral Fire SafetyFire safety signage refers to all mandatory signs in buildings communicating fire safety information — including emergency exit signs, fire action notices, fire door keep-shut signs, and fire extinguisher identification signs. Signs must conform to the symbols and colours specified in BS ISO 7010 and the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996, and must be kept legible and unobstructed at all times.View definition
Frequently Asked Questions
An emergency exit sign is a self-illuminated or externally lit sign displaying the internationally recognised green running-man pictogram (BS ISO 7010 E001/E002) to indicate the direction of emergency escape routes and final exits. Signs must be visible from all points on the escape route, illuminated by the emergency lighting system, and maintained in accordance with BS 5266-1 and the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996.
Requirements for emergency exit sign in the UK depend on the type of premises and applicable legislation, including the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and relevant British Standards. The responsible person for a premises must ensure adequate fire safety provisions are in place. The British Fire Consortium can provide guidance — contact our team or search our member directory to find a qualified specialist.
Emergency Exit Sign and Emergency Lighting are related fire safety concepts but serve different purposes. See our individual glossary entries for detailed definitions. For expert guidance on which applies to your premises, consult a BFC member company.
The British Fire Consortium offers EAL Level 3 accredited training covering fire safety systems including topics related to emergency exit sign. Our courses are the only nationally recognised Level 3 qualifications across all fire disciplines. View our training courses or use the member directory to find a qualified trainer near you.