Whether you manage an apartment complex or office building, you must keep your facilities up to code to ensure the safety of inhabitants, staff, and visitors. Fire protection services and health and safety organizations require you to use emergency lighting and signage so people can find their way out during an evacuation. Here are three tips to ensure your building complies. 

How to Keep Your Building Compliant With Fire Protection Services 

1. Emergency Lights

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) requires emergency lighting to illuminate and identify hallways, stairwells, escalators, ramps, and exits. The lights must illuminate these areas instantly or within 10 seconds of a power outage, and remain powered for at least 90 minutes. This will ensure everyone can find their way out. The NFPA also requires a monthly activation test to check that emergency lighting is working.

2. Exit Signs

Buildings must have clear signs at each door leading to an exit. These must be seen from a distance, be it in the dark or during the day. They must be outfitted with a backup battery that’ll keep them lit during a power outage. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires externally powered bulbs illuminating them to provide at least 54 lux. The letters must be plain and legible, at least six inches high and ¾ inches wide.

The signs and doors must not be covered or obstructed by furniture, decor, equipment, or anything else that may impede a safe and quick passage. If there are doors that could be mistaken for an outdoor exit along the route, they must be clearly marked “no exit” or “not an exit” to prevent confusion during an evacuation.

3. Task Lights

Task lights are designed to enhance visibility for a specific purpose in case of emergency. They may illuminate the floor in the path to an exit route, for instance. They can also be strategically placed next to equipment, such as a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, or alarm in a dark hallway to help people locate these during an emergency and read their instructions for use. 

If you run a business in La Crosse County, turn to Fire Protection Specialists in Bangor, WI, for expert fire protection services and fire safety maintenance. This locally owned company provides ABC-rated fire extinguishers to keep your workplace safe. They also offer a range of fire protection services such as equipment installation and repairs to help you meet workplace regulations. Visit their website to learn more about how they can help, or call (800) 658-9463 to schedule an inspection.