Fire exit door marking is an important aspect of building safety that does not receive the attention it deserves. Proper marking matters for compliance with UK regulations and can mean the difference between life and death in emergencies.
This guide explores the essential requirements and best practices for effectively marking fire exit doors.
In the UK, fire exit door marking must comply with several regulations, including BS 5499 standards and the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996. These requirements are designed for consistent, clear communication during emergencies when every second counts.
At Bradbury Group, we manufacture our fire exit doors to accommodate the required signage and marking requirements, making compliance straightforward for building managers and property owners.
The most recognisable element of fire exit marking is the ‘running man’ pictogram. This internationally recognised symbol must be:
The size of your signage matters too. Signs should be large enough to be visible from the maximum viewing distance in your space, with a general rule that text height should be readable from 20 metres away.
Different environments require a variety of signage. The main categories include:
These are essential in buildings that operate 24/7 or have areas with limited natural light. Illuminated signs are powered by electricity and feature a backup power source, ensuring visibility even during power outages.
They are ideal for large, complex buildings with many occupants, such as hospitals, hotels, and office buildings. Our M2M+ fire doors can be fitted with complementary illuminated signage systems that maintain visibility even during power failures.
These signs absorb and store light energy, glowing in the darkness. They are particularly effective as backup systems and are often used in conjunction with illuminated signs.
Photoluminescent signs are low maintenance, don’t require electricity or batteries, and can provide visibility for up to 12 hours after exposure to light. They are suitable for buildings with adequate ambient lighting and are commonly used in schools, retail stores, and public buildings.
Suitable for well-lit areas with regular operating hours, these standard signs are cost-effective while meeting basic requirements. Non-illuminated signs are made of durable materials such as plastic or metal and can be easily mounted on doors or walls.
However, they may not be suitable for areas with low light levels or in the event of a power failure. These signs are commonly found in small businesses, shops, and low-occupancy buildings.
Proper placement of fire exit signs is important for visibility and guiding occupants to safety in an emergency.
Signs should be positioned at a height and location visible from all areas of the building, considering any potential obstructions, such as furniture or equipment.
The specific height and location of signs may vary depending on the building type and layout, but general guidelines include:
Emergency lighting works hand-in-hand with fire exit marking. Your emergency lighting system must make all exit signs visible during power failures whilst adequately illuminating routes to fire exits. All backup power systems must meet current regulatory requirements.
Our certified steel fire exit doors can be integrated with various emergency lighting systems for seamless compatibility with your building’s safety infrastructure.
Regular maintenance is a legal requirement and not just a good practice. Monthly checks should assess visibility and damage, while annual testing should form part of a comprehensive fire safety assessment.
Signs showing wear or damage must be promptly replaced to maintain safety standards. We provide comprehensive guidance on maintaining the doors and associated signage system to aid long-term compliance and safety.
Proper fire exit marking is a core component of your building’s fire safety strategy. Combined with high-quality fire exit doors and steel doors, like the ones manufactured by Bradbury Group, is key to creating a comprehensive safety system that protects occupants and meets regulatory requirements.
Contact us today for expert advice on fire exit doors and compatible marking systems. Our team will help ensure your fire safety measures meet all important UK regulations while providing the highest level of protection for your building’s occupants.
