A practical, non-salesy guide to choosing EXIT legend color on edge-lit signs—how visibility, finishes, and AHJ standards affect whether red or green is the better fit.
Last updated: October 2025
Why Color Choice Matters (Visibility Basics)
On edge-lit exit signs, LEDs illuminate the etched legend in either red or green. Both colors are commonly code-compliant on listed signs, but the readability you get in real spaces depends on contrast, ambient light, and how the sign sits in a corridor sightline.
For an overview of edge-lit families and mounting types, see the pillar: Edge-Lit Exit Signs — Buyers Guide.
Code & AHJ Expectations
- Color: Most jurisdictions permit either red or green on listed signs. Some campuses/AHJs standardize one color for uniformity.
- Letter height: 6″ is typical; some cities/occupancies require 8″ in certain conditions. Confirm with your AHJ before ordering.
- Testing: Maintain monthly and annual battery tests on all electric signs—color doesn’t change maintenance.
Contrast & Ambient Light
Choose the legend color that contrasts best with surrounding finishes and performs under your lighting conditions:
- Neutral/cool backgrounds: Red often pops sharply against grays, concrete, and metal finishes.
- Warm/biophilic or healthcare palettes: Green can feel calmer and integrate better with natural tones.
- Bright lobbies or glassy corridors: High ambient light can wash out the legend—mock up both colors on site if possible.
- Reflections: With mirrored or glossy panels, check glare; angle and mounting height can influence legibility.
Typical Selection Patterns (By Setting)
- Hospitality / Corporate Front-of-House: Red for punchy contrast; green if the palette skews warm or biophilic.
- Healthcare: Green is often preferred for a calmer read, especially in patient corridors.
- Education / Office Corridors: Either color works—match campus standards or existing installs.
- Mixed Renovations: Stay consistent with existing EXIT color unless the AHJ directs a change.
Red vs Green — Quick Comparison Table
| Factor | Red Legend | Green Legend |
|---|---|---|
| Perceived visibility | High contrast on cool/neutral finishes | Calmer read; works with warm/biophilic palettes |
| Ambient light tolerance | Strong, but can wash in very bright lobbies—mock up | Also strong; check for washout under daylight/glare |
| Common standards | Frequent default in corporate/hospitality | Often preferred in healthcare and education |
| Consistency across sites | If your AHJ/campus has a standard, match it everywhere for uniformity. | |
Need help deciding among sign families as well? See Edge-Lit vs Photoluminescent vs Thermoplastic for a quick matrix.
Integrating with Faces, Mounting & Arrows
Color choice should align with the rest of the layout so the legend is visible from actual approach angles:
- Face count: Use double-face where occupants approach from two sides; single-face for one-direction travel.
- Mounting: Ceiling mount for long corridors; end/flag when perpendicular visibility is critical; wall/back to keep a low profile.
- Chevrons (arrows): Apply after verifying door swing and final egress path.
Planning resources: Single- vs Double-Face Edge-Lit — Sightlines & Corridor Planning and the Edge-Lit Exit Sign Mounting & Wiring Guide.
Mini AHJ Checklist
- Legend color: Red or green per local/campus standard.
- Letter height: 6″ typical; verify if 8″ applies to your occupancy.
- Faces & mounting: Single/double-face and ceiling/end/wall chosen for sightlines.
- Listing & backup: UL 924 with 90-minute battery; keep monthly/annual tests.
For a broad overview of specs and options, start with the Edge-Lit Buyers Guide.
FAQ
Is one color “more code-compliant” than the other?
No. On listed edge-lit signs, both red and green are commonly accepted unless your AHJ or campus standard specifies one color.
Which color is easier to see in daylight?
Both read well, but bright spaces can wash out legends. Mock up both colors under your actual lighting before deciding.
Can I mix colors within the same building?
It’s better to be consistent. Many facilities standardize one color across all floors and projects; follow your AHJ/facility standard.
Does letter color affect battery or power?
No. Color choice doesn’t change power or testing—maintain monthly and annual tests as usual.