Emergency exit signs are a necessary component of any public building. They are required at stores, and office buildings so that in an emergency, the exits can be easily located so that anyone inside can be evacuated. An exit only emergency sign is also required to be illuminated from an independent light source, so that they may be visible even during a power outage. There are typically three ways that this is achieved. The three basic types of emergency exit signs are: externally lighted, internally lighted, and photoluminescent exit signs. Each has its own distinct advantages and disadvantages.
Externally lighted emergency exit signs typically feature light fixtures that are located on either side of them. Should there be a power outage, the light fixtures will activate, and the emergency exit signage will be completely visible. These can also be useful for lighting the immediate area around an exit sign, which is always helpful for navigating an exit door. But a downside to these is that they don’t allow for the actual “exit” letters to be illuminated themselves. That means the letters can be harder to see from a farther distance.
Internally lighted emergency exit signs usually feature incandescent bulbs or LED lights, that are installed within the illuminated exit sign display. Usually in the form of a hollow box, containing the bulbs with red tinted plastic or glass lettering for the emergency exit sign’s text. Then during a power outage, the bulbs are activated, and the word EXIT flashes bright red so that it can be easily seen from anywhere. The only downside, is that when these signs are not accompanied by emergency light fixtures, they don’t provide a whole lot of light. So you’ll be able to see where the exit is, but in pitch black darkness, you won’t be able to see much else.
Electroluminescent emergency exit signs feature a substance that is painted onto the EXIT letters of the sign. When light hits this material, a reaction occurs in which the light is reflected back allowing for each letter to shine very brightly. Of course this isn’t very useful when no light is present, so photoluminescent exit signs are useless without an independent light source to allow for that reaction.
To buy an emergency exit sign you can either go to a local retailer like Home Depot, who has plenty of options, or try an online retailer. If you find the options limited in your area, the internet is a great place to turn for cheap emergency exit signs for any use. Amazon.com, or even BuyLightFIxtures.com have a wide variety of lighting options specific to emergency exit only signs. Typically an exit sign for emergency use will cost you anywhere from $30 to $60. The largest cost modifiers are how the light functions, what type of battery unit is required, and the lighting technology used.
Make sure to comply with any safety regulations in your area, as each state has different requirements. Some emergency exit signs may not be allowed under certain safety regulations. To avoid any legal trouble in the long run, make sure to read up on the laws before making a final lighted exit sign purchase.