Emergency light mounting directly impacts coverage, visibility, and code compliance. This guide walks through wall, ceiling, end/flag, and recessed mounting—plus spacing, aiming, and on-site tips—so you avoid shadows and keep egress routes safely lit. For an all-in overview of codes, testing, and sizing, see the Emergency Lighting Guide.
Last updated: October 2025
Overview
Mounting is more than “where it looks best”—it determines how much usable light reaches the floor along the egress path. A good plan chooses the right form factor, puts light exactly where people walk, and preserves code-required clearances so inspections are smooth.
Mounting Types (Wall, Ceiling, End/Flag, Recessed)
Wall Mount
- Best for: corridors, stair landings, small rooms.
- Height: commonly 7–10 ft AFF to keep heads above sightlines and throw light forward.
- Notes: aim one head along travel, one across the corridor to remove dark “side” zones.
Ceiling (Top) Mount
- Best for: open lobbies, intersections, or where wall locations are blocked.
- Pros: central position reduces wall shadows; can increase spacing between fixtures.
- Cons: verify box support and keep clear of diffusers/sprinklers and signage.
End/Flag Mount (Perpendicular)
- Best for: corridor corners and T-intersections—projects light around the turn.
- Pros: better cross-corridor visibility; easy to spot from either direction.
- Notes: use supplied canopy and fasteners; verify projection doesn’t violate headroom.
Recessed Mount (Low-Profile)
- Best for: design-sensitive spaces, where you want safety without visual clutter.
- Pros: hides the body in the ceiling/wall; clean architectural look.
- Plan for: plenum space, rough-in coordination, access for service.
- Shop: Recessed Emergency Lights
Spacing & Aiming for Clear Egress
- Overlap beams: plan fixture spacing so floor light overlaps; remove gaps at doors and turns.
- Aim on install: adjust heads to illuminate stair treads, landings, and intersections.
- Ceiling height: taller ceilings need tighter spacing or higher-output optics (MR16 heads).
- Verify on site: run the 90-minute test on sign-off and walk the egress path for dark spots.
Code Notes: Heights, Clearances & Power
- Heights: local AHJs often accept 7–10 ft AFF; ensure heads aren’t obstructed by signage or soffits.
- Clearances: don’t block sprinklers, detectors, or egress signage; maintain headroom.
- Power: connect to an unswitched feed so chargers stay active; if a switched circuit is unavoidable, use a listed emergency transfer device.
- Labeling: identify the branch circuit as “Emergency” per NEC Article 700 conventions.
Installation Tips & Common Pitfalls
- Mount to a rated electrical box (or anchors for masonry); torque fasteners properly.
- Use gaskets/sealant for wet, washdown, or corrosive areas; preserve NEMA/IP ratings.
- Verify dual-voltage lead selection (120/277 V) before energizing.
- Aim heads and document the initial 90-minute test with photos for your packet.
- Keep clear of sprinklers, HVAC diffusers, cameras, and door swings.
Wet/Outdoor & Cold-Weather Mounting
- Use wet-location units: gasketed housings; consider NEMA 3R/4X for harsher sites.
- Cold weather: add heaters or choose cold-rated batteries to preserve runtime.
- Coastal: prefer coated metals or non-ferrous housings; stainless hardware.
FAQ
What’s the “best” mounting height?
There isn’t one universal height—7–10 ft AFF is common. Choose the height that gives the most even floor illumination and clears signage/soffits.
Can I put emergency lights on a switched lighting circuit?
They should be on an unswitched feed so the charger is always powered. If a switched circuit is unavoidable, use a listed emergency transfer device per code.
When should I choose recessed?
In design-sensitive spaces (lobbies, galleries, corporate interiors) or where projection could interfere with traffic or headroom. See Recessed Emergency Lights.