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Wednesday, January 11, 2023
Question:
Dear Code Question of Day, what code determines where exit signs are installed? I cannot find anything in the electrical code. We are doing a design build project, and local AHJ is telling us we need to install two (2) exit signs (1-high and 1-low close to the floor) at the specified exits. Thanks for the help, John Sweitzer
A
Answer:
Good morning, John, great question! Once again, we find ourselves on a topic where multiple codes intersect. The wiring requirements for egress illumination and illuminated exit signs are covered in Article 700 of the NEC® as they are part of the Emergency Electrical System. NEC® Sections that specifically pertaining to illuminated exit signage:
- 700.12(I) for unit equipment
- 700.16 for emergency illumination
- 700.17 for branch circuit requirements
The requirements for where the exit signs are physically located comes from the International Building Code
(IBC®). Specifically, Section 1013 of the 2021
IBC®. Section 1013.2 requires low-level exit signs in addition to the required normal height signs for Group R-1 occupancies, in areas serving guest rooms. These low-level signs shall be installed between 10”-18” from the floor to the bottom of the sign. Group R-1 occupancies typically refer to residential type occupancies where the occupants are primarily transient in nature. Examples of Group R-1 occupancies include, but are not limited to: Boarding Houses ( >10 occupants), Congregate Living Facilities (>10 occupants), Hotels and Motels. Hope this helps.