Exit Signs and Emergency Lights

If you're specifying egress lighting for a permit set and need documentation, the spec sheet is linked on every product page.

Do LED exit signs need battery backup?

Yes. Exit signs must stay lit during a power outage, typically for at least 90 minutes, so commercial exit signs include an internal battery or are connected to an emergency power source.

How long do emergency lights need to stay on during an outage?

Life safety code generally requires egress lighting to operate for at least 90 minutes on battery. Your local inspector has the final say on what your project needs.

Do exit signs and emergency lights need to be tested?

Yes. Most codes call for a short functional test every month and a full duration test once a year. Self diagnostic units help by testing themselves and showing a status light.

Related: exit sign and emergency lighting requirements.