Emergency exit lighting is not just a building feature – it’s a life-safety necessity governed by strict building codes. Every commercial or public building must have clearly marked EXIT signs and adequate emergency lighting to guide people to safety during a power outage or fire.
Emergency exit lighting is a life-safety requirement governed by local and national codes. Exit sign and emergency light combo units simplify installation while satisfying code. Learn how to choose the right one for your city and application.
Combo Units vs. Standalone Exit Signs and Emergency Lights
Combo units combine an exit sign with integrated emergency light heads, simplifying installation and maintenance. Use standalone units for large facilities needing custom placement of lighting or signage.
Chicago: Exceedingly Durable and Bright Exit Lighting
- Only red letters on a white background allowed
- Metal housings required
- High-output lamp heads (12W+) mandated
- UL 924 listing and Chicago-specific approval label required
New York City: Bigger, Brighter Signs with Strict Specs
- 8-inch tall red letters with 1-inch stroke
- Metal housing only - no plastic signs allowed
- Must be electrically illuminated - no photoluminescent or tritium
- Minimum brightness of 5 foot-candles
- Codified in 2008 under Local Law 26
- Battery backup must activate within 10 seconds
Connecticut: State Code Highlights
- IBC/NFPA standards enforced
- Red or green lettering allowed if contrasted
- ISA wheelchair symbol required on accessible signage
Hazardous Location Basics
In certain industrial or chemical facilities, using standard electrical fixtures can pose an ignition risk if flammable gases, vapors, or dust are present. Hazardous location exit sign combos are built with specialized sealed housings to prevent internal sparks from igniting dangerous atmospheres. These rugged units are often referred to as "explosion-proof" exit signs.
Hazard Classes & Divisions: Class I (gases), Class II (dust), Class III (fibers); Division 1 = frequent exposure, Division 2 = occasional exposure.
Choosing the Right Rating: Match your location's hazard class with the unit’s rating. Hazardous Location exit sign combos are required in spray booths, refineries, fuel storage areas, etc.
Housing Material Options
Housing material affects durability and compliance:
- Thermoplastic: Light, economical; best for indoor use.
- Die-Cast Aluminum: Durable, architectural appeal; suits most codes. View aluminum combos.
- Steel: Heavy-duty, ideal for harsh or hazardous environments.
Battery Backup & Self-Testing
Battery Backup: All compliant units must provide 90 minutes of emergency illumination during power outages. Shop battery backup combos.
Self-Testing: Diagnostic models automate monthly and annual testing. A visual LED alert indicates pass/fail status. Browse self-testing options.
Dry vs. Wet Location Ratings
Choose a unit rated for the environment:
- Dry Location: Indoor-only spaces like offices or retail stores.
- Damp Location: High-humidity indoor or covered outdoor areas. See damp-rated combos.
- Wet Location: Direct exposure to rain, water spray, or washdowns. Explore wet-rated units.
If unsure, choose wet-rated – they are safe in all conditions.
Conclusion
Combo exit sign/emergency light units simplify code compliance and reduce install complexity. Prioritize UL 924 listing, match housing and rating to your site, and always verify city code. Explore our full combo selection for every application.
Download Exit Sign & Emergency Light Combo Compliance and Safety Guide (PDF)