UL 924 made simple—where emergency lights are required, how to test them, and how to choose the right unit for your space based on core emergency lighting code requirements.
UL 924 Quick Reference
- 90-minute performance: All emergency lights must deliver required illumination for at least 90 minutes.
- Illuminance: Code calls for roughly 1 fc average along the egress path with no point below 0.1 fc.
- Transfer time: Units must enter emergency mode within 10 seconds.
- Listing: Use UL 924-listed fixtures to meet national emergency lighting requirements.
- Testing: Monthly 30-second and annual 90-minute tests (self-testing units automate this).
Where Is Emergency Lighting Needed?
Emergency lighting code requirements apply to any part of the means of egress: corridors, stairwells, ramps, aisles, exterior discharge pathways, and critical life-safety rooms such as generator or fire pump spaces.
Types & Form Factors
- Thermoplastic — standard option for everyday interiors.
- Steel — tougher units for industrial and abuse-prone areas.
- Architectural / Die-cast Aluminum — clean aesthetics for finished spaces.
- Recessed & low-profile — unobtrusive, ceiling-integrated solutions.
- Wet-location — required by code for outdoor or washdown-rated areas.
- High-lumen — large spaces, high ceilings, or long-throw needs.
- Remote-capable bases & remote heads — extend coverage from a single battery source.
- Also consider exit sign + emergency light combos where signage and lighting combine.
Wiring & Installation
- Hardwired: Connected to building power with an internal charger and battery to meet emergency lighting code.
- Mounting: Wall, ceiling, pendant, or recessed (verify plenum/clearance needs).
- Outdoors: Use wet-location ratings and corrosion-resistant materials.
Inspection & Maintenance
- Monthly: 30-second functional test; verify indicators.
- Annual: 90-minute discharge test; document pass/fail.
- Logs: Maintain testing logs for AHJ review.
Reduce manual labor with self-testing emergency lights that automate code-mandated testing and status reporting.
Selection & Sizing
- Environment: Indoor vs. wet-location; temperature (heaters for cold).
- Coverage: Beam spread, aiming, and ceiling height considerations; choose high-lumen for large volumes.
- Remote heads: Use a remote-capable base with matched-voltage remote heads.
- Finish/material: Architectural, steel, or thermoplastic depending on environment and durability needs.
Energy & Adaptive Features
LED emergency lighting reduces energy use. Photocells, occupancy sensors, and self-testing functions keep units efficient and inspection-ready.
Local Code Notes
NYC and Chicago have unique emergency lighting requirements—often specifying metal housings and specific visibility standards. Always verify locally with your AHJ.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using damp-rated units outdoors instead of wet-location models.
- Under-sizing runtime when adding remote heads.
- Skipping annual 90-minute tests or failing to maintain logs.
- Ignoring temperature ratings—use heaters when required by code.
AHJ Inspection Packet Checklist
- One-line diagram with locations & mounting heights
- UL 924 spec sheets and install instructions for each fixture
- Monthly/annual test logs
- If using remote heads: voltage, distance, and 90-minute load calculations
Summary: Compliance in 5 Steps
- Identify required areas based on emergency lighting code.
- Choose UL 924–listed fixtures.
- Install correctly for site conditions.
- Test and document.
- Confirm local amendments with your AHJ.