Exit Signs

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Exit signs are installed in the locations determined by the Building Code of Australia and in according with AS/NZS 2293.1. They are designed to minimise the risk of death or injury to occupants during an emergency because of an inability to find an exit. They must be visible at all times and are located on, above or adjacent to the specified designated exits and doors. In a Fire Alarm situation they will direct occupants to a safe place or open space.

In the event of a power failure they will operate on battery power for a period of 90 minutes.

In accordance with Australian Standard 2293, exit signs and direction arrows shall be white and the background shall be green.

They must be installed on, above or adjacent to:

• An enclosed stairway, passageway or ramp serving as a required exit
• An external stairway, passageway or ramp serving as a required exit;
• An external access balcony leading to a required exit
• A door from an enclosed stairway, passageway or ramp at every level of discharge to a road or open space
• A required doorway between two parts of a building separated from each other by a fire wall
• A door serving as, or forming part of a required exit

Directional Signs

Where an exit may not be visible and exit sign may have a directional indicator (such as an arrow) which clearly indicates the direction of travel to a required exit.

Discharge from Exits

Where exit signs are installed, there must be an unobstructed path of egress to the exit.

(The Building Code specifies the minimum width of required exits.  The minimum is 1m, however, depending on the class and occupancy of the building, the unobstructed width may be greater.)