What fire exit signs do I need for my office?
The HSE (Health and Safety Executive) guidelines state that fire exit signs are essential for ensuring the safe evacuation of occupants during a fire. The specific type and placement of fire exit signs will depend on the layout and size of your office. However, there are some general guidelines that you can follow:
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Visibility: Fire exit signs should be visible from any point in the office. They should be positioned at a height that people quickly see of all heights.
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Legibility: Fire exit signs should have clear, bold lettering that can be easily read from a distance. The lettering should contrast the background, such as white on green.
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Illumination: Fire exit signs should be illuminated in the event of a power failure to remain visible in an emergency. This can be achieved by using self-illuminated signs or by connecting the signs to a backup power supply.
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Direction: Fire exit signs should indicate the direction of the nearest fire exit. This can be done with arrows or the words "Fire Exit" followed by an arrow.
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Consistency: Fire exit signs should be consistent in their appearance and placement throughout the office. This will help ensure that occupants know where to find the exits in an emergency.
Here are some specific recommendations for fire exit signs in offices:
Main Corridors: Place fire exit signs above all doorways leading to fire exits in main corridors.
Open Areas: In open areas without walls or partitions, place fire exit signs at regular intervals to ensure they are visible from all angles.
Stairwells: Place fire exit signs at the top and bottom of all stairwells and at intermediate landings if necessary.
Meeting Rooms and Offices: Place fire exit signs near the doors of all meeting rooms and offices.
Storage Areas: Place fire exit signs near the exits of all storage areas and at regular intervals along any evacuation routes within the storage area.
Basements and Upper Floors: Place fire exit signs at the top and bottom of all stairwells leading to and from basements and upper floors.
Exterior Exits: Place fire exit signs above all exterior exits.
It is essential to regularly inspect fire exit signs to ensure that they are in good condition and that they are adequately illuminated. You should also update the signs if there are any changes to the layout of the office or the fire escape routes.
By following the HSE guidelines and using fire exit signs effectively, you can help to ensure the safe evacuation of your office occupants in the event of a fire.