NYC Exit Sign + Emergency Light Combos — Doorway & Decision‑Point Compliance

Overview: When to use combos in NYC

Combos simplify doorways and turns: a single unit provides a compliant EXIT legend and emergency illumination. Use them above exit doors, at corridor turns, and at decision points where inspectors expect both wayfinding and light on the path. For NYC fundamentals (legend size/color, housing expectations, placement basics), start with the NYC Exit Sign Requirements (Pillar).

From a search perspective, teams often look for phrases like nyc exit sign combo, exit sign emergency combo nyc, and combination exit signs nyc when scoping door‑mounted solutions—this guide covers those options in practical terms.

NYC exit sign emergency combo requirements

• Legend: Inspectors commonly expect 8" red letters with a 1" stroke, high contrast, and correct chevrons for the actual path.
• Heads: Adjustable, bright, and aimed along egress—avoid glare into occupants’ eyes. Confirm spacing/mounting height for the corridor or stair geometry.
• Runtime & listing: UL 924 with 90-minute emergency lighting operation. Status indicators and the test switch must be visible and serviceable.
• Housing: Durable construction suitable for public areas (metal/architectural housings are common in NYC interiors).
• Environment: For hose‑down/exterior exposure, use gasketed housings and protected indicators; see the NYC Guide: Wet‑location exit sign guide.

National baseline details: For the listing and test criteria that underpin NYC reviews, see the Fire Code Guide: UL 924 Compliance Guide (2 of 2 Fire Code Guide links in this post).

Selection checklist (heads, power, arrows)

• Head output & optics: Choose lamp wattage/beam spreads that achieve corridor/stair light levels with the fewest fixtures. Aim heads to eliminate dark pockets at landings and turns.
• Power & battery: Match input voltage, confirm battery chemistry and temperature rating, and verify 90 minutes at your ambient conditions.
• Chevron options: Order the correct arrowing (left/right/double). Avoid field tape‑overs that trigger rejections.
• Form factor: Where aesthetics matter, consider ceiling/wall integrations; for clean ceilings, see NYC Guide: Recessed exit signs & emergency lights.

Placement at doors & decision points

Center combos above exit doors when practical, or use end/flag mounts for visibility along the approach. At intersections and corners, provide intermediate coverage so occupants always see the next EXIT and the path remains illuminated during outage conditions. Keep the legend clear of sprinklers, cameras, and door hardware; avoid back‑lighting shiny surfaces that create glare.

Stairwells & wide corridors

In stairs, add supplemental heads if ceiling height or geometry creates shadows on landings. In wide corridors or atria, one combo’s heads may not cover the floor—add dedicated emergency lights or a second combo downstream. The NYC Guide: Emergency lighting requirements explains aiming patterns and inspection expectations for large spaces.

Self-diagnostics, testing & logs

Self‑diagnostic combos automate monthly quick checks and the annual 90‑minute discharge. They surface faults via indicator codes—useful on multi‑level or high‑count projects. Keep a simple pass/fail log and note any head replacements, battery swaps, or circuit changes. See NYC Guide: Self‑testing exit signs for how to streamline records and reduce truck rolls.

FAQs

Can I use combos everywhere in NYC?

Combos are common at doors and decision points. Ensure the legend meets NYC building code exit signs expectations and heads reach required egress levels.

Do combos replace separate emergency lights?

Sometimes—if head output/aiming cover the path. In wide spaces or high ceilings, add supplemental fixtures to maintain continuous visibility.

Are recessed or architectural combos an option?

Yes—coordinate trims, mounting heights, and aiming. For aesthetics and clean integrations, see the recessed NYC guide linked above.