NYC Exit Signs

During a fire or other emergency, taking quick action is critical to keeping building occupants and first responders safe. Because there is little time in these situations, there are clear advantages to installing uniform emergency equipment in buildings and structures. Not only do they provide clear directions to points of egress, but they will perform predictably during a fire and not risk explosion or additional points of ignition. They also ensure rescue personnel will already be familiar with the functionality and wiring inside.

For these reasons, many municipalities define standards for safety equipment to be used within city limits. In New York City, the Fire Code provides requirements for a range of equipment, including exit signs. Buildings and structures throughout the five boroughs must install exit signs that comply with the code.

Pace Electronics is a leading supplier of exit signs that meet New York City fire code requirements. Learn more about these important signs and our selection below.

About the New York Exit Sign Code

Buildings and structures in New York City must comply with Title 27 Subchapter 6 of the New York City Fire Code regarding means of egress. Illuminated exit sign design is addressed in Articles 6, 7, 8, and 11, and includes details about power sources, high-rise buildings, directional signage, and registering these systems. In addition, New York City Building Code section BC 1011 provides guidance on exit signs.

These codes draw on, and generally exceed, standards set by UL, NFPA, and NEMA, all of which address signage, electrical and power supply requirements, installations, and inspections.

The Importance of Approved NYC Exit Signs for Your Organization

Exit signs direct people to safety during a fire or other emergency. In almost any commercial structure in New York City, fire code requires that exit signs must be illuminated for better visibility, and in order to communicate the safest escape route for tenants, patrons, and occupants. Illumination also helps first responders navigate unfamiliar building layouts. Exit signs are often installed in pathways, stairwells, and locations with potential obstacles

Ensuring exit signs are visible at all times is a crucial aspect of almost any organization’s emergency preparedness plan. Illuminated signs are powered by electricity; however, in the event of a power outage, photoluminescent (i.e, glow-in-the-dark) material on NYC-approved exit signs retains a charge from ambient light so they remain visible in the dark. This allows people to see the sign even after an outage, so they are still guided on the evacuation route.

How to Choose a Compliant NYC Exit Sign

To comply with New York City’s fire code, approved signs must have certain elements and functionalities, including:

• Steel or aluminum housing
• Red lettering that reads EXIT
• Red internal lighting
• A letter size of 8″ tall with a 1″ stroke width
• A white background
• At least 8 hours of sustained visibility after exposure to ambient light for photoluminescent exit signs
• Self-luminescent signs may not use tritium

As a best practice, consult the relevant portions of New York City fire codes to verify that the exit signs you select are in compliance.

Types of New York Exit Signs We Carry

Pace Electronics offers a selection of New York City-approved exit signs to meet your needs. Our PAC0346, PAC0850, and PAC0456 NYC exit signs are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and distribute light evenly. Key features include:

• Micro-designs
• Slim-profile designs
• Combination LED exit and incandescent emergency lighting
• Pivoting features for recess- or surface-mounted lights

Our exterior lighting fixtures also come with corrosion-resistant enclosures for use in areas exposed to rain, wind, and snow. Additionally, we offer options to enhance the performance of your exterior compliant exit signs, including internal heaters for low-temperature environments and self-diagnostic systems.

Quality New York-Approved Exit Signs by Pace

Exit signs are an important part of emergency preparedness planning, and they keep occupants and first responders informed during fast-changing emergency situations. Pace is a leading New York lighting company that can provide your organization with the exit signs and other products you need to meet fire and municipal code requirements. We are committed to continuous improvement, customer support, and developing cost-effective solutions.

To learn more about our New York exit signs, contact us or request a quote.