For most applications across the United States, a UL 924 listing is all you need to ensure your emergency lights and exit signs meet fire safety and building code requirements. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is an independent safety certification organization that evaluates everything from blenders to electrical cables—and UL 924 specifically governs emergency lighting and power equipment.
All emergency fixtures sold on EmergencyLights.net are UL 924 listed. However, if you're installing lighting in Chicago or New York City, you’ll need to go beyond national code—these cities enforce stricter local standards.
Chicago Emergency Lighting Code
Chicago maintains one of the strictest fire codes in the country—especially regarding emergency egress lighting. While UL 924 compliance is required, the city adds its own specifications, particularly for durability and visibility.
Key Requirements for Chicago:
- Emergency lights must feature a metal faceplate for increased durability
- Units must provide a minimum of 90 minutes of battery-operated illumination
- Fixtures must meet local city code regardless of UL compliance
All of our Chicago-approved emergency lights are built to meet these standards and come with a white powder-coated finish by default. Custom finishes are also available upon request.
New York City Emergency Exit Sign Code
New York City takes emergency signage seriously. Exit signs must meet or exceed UL 924 criteria, plus several stricter visual and material requirements defined in the NYC building and fire codes.
Key Requirements for NYC Exit Signs:
- Letters must be 8 inches tall with a 1-inch stroke width
- Letter color must be red only
- Housing must be constructed from aluminum or steel—no plastic allowed
- Self-luminous and photoluminescent signs are not allowed; only electrically powered fixtures are permitted
- Signs must produce a minimum of 5 foot-candles of illumination from their face
Our NYC-approved exit signs are specifically engineered to comply with all of these local requirements.
Buying Emergency Lighting for NYC or Chicago?
If you're installing emergency lighting or signage in either of these cities, UL 924 is not enough. Make sure to purchase fixtures that are specifically labeled and tested for compliance with Chicago or NYC building codes.
To simplify your search, we've created dedicated collections for each city:
Ensure your facility passes inspection and protects its occupants with lighting systems built to meet every standard—federal and local alike.