Understanding Fire Signage

Choosing your fire signage can be a daunting task. What exactly do you need? Where do you have to install them? Will you be compliant with BS EN ISO 7010? What happens if you get it wrong? In the UK between 2010 and 2014, there were 97,500 fires in commercial premises, with 1,881 fatalities over the same period. It is essential to have clearly marked routes to exits and fire fighting equipment as this will help to limit the risk of loss of life. Where do you place signs on the escape route? The first step to determining your escape route is to find your primary escape route. This should be the shortest and quickest route out of the building from any given location. It is also essential to plan a secondary escape route, in the event of a fire makes the primary route impassable. Determining the signage for your fire escape route is confusing, however it can be simplified with a few simple guidelines; Within your building, an escape sign should always be visible Once past the first fire escape sign, the next escape sign along the route must be clearly seen Further signage is required at every change of direction along the escape route A fire exit sign must be above all final fire exit doors Ensure there are no conflicting signs along the route e.g. 2 arrow up signs back to back. What signs do you use? Fire exit arrow Left and Right are self-explanatory, but when do you use the up or down arrow? Fire Exit Arrow Up – To be used when you have to continue along your route, towards another fire exit sign. It can also be used for final exits. Unless there is a step down or ramp immediately outside. Fire Exit Arrow Down – To be used when you have to continue along your route, towards another fire exit sign. If after an exit sign there is a staircase leading down immediately after your sign, then a down arrow is required. What size do I need? When ordering your signage the size you require will be based on the maximum distance the sign will be viewed from: 300mm x 100mm KD – Viewing distance up to 10 meters 450mm x 150mm NF – Viewing distance up to 15 meters 600mm x 200mm RG – Viewing distance up to 20 meters 1200mm x 400mm – Viewing distance up to 40 meters For illuminated signs the viewing distance doubles When does photoluminescent help? Photoluminescent signs provide additional reliability. In the event of a power failure, they offer a constant source of illumination and invaluable guidance. Additional Fire Signage So now you have your escape routes clearly marked you’re done, yes? Not quite. People often overlook the other aspects of fire safety: Fire door signage e.g. Fire Door Keep Shut Fire Alarm Call Points Fire Extinguishers relating to any and all extinguishers available in your building Fire Action Notices Fire Escape Keep Clear Our expert site survey team are happy to visit your premises if you have a large complex project and are in need of assistance. Our sales team can be contacted on 01737 774072 for free advice, or alternatively you can email.

For more information on Understanding Fire Signage talk to Stocksigns Ltd