The Complete Guide to Emergency Exit Lights & Signs: What Every Business Needs to Know
When it comes to workplace safety, emergency exit lighting isn’t just a formality, it’s a legal requirement. Whether you’re managing a commercial space, running a retail shop, or building out an office, this guide explains everything from how emergency exit lights work to where to install them. If you own or manage a building in Sydney’s Hills District, this guide is a must-read.
Why Emergency Exit Lights Are Essential
In an emergency, like a fire or blackout, people need clear, visible paths to exit safely. That’s where emergency exit signs and lighting come in. Without them, evacuation becomes dangerous. Worse, failing to comply with Australian Standards can lead to penalties or shutdowns.
How Do Emergency Exit Lights Work?
Emergency exit lights are wired into your building’s main electrical system but include a built-in battery. If the power goes out, the battery kicks in to keep the lights illuminated for at least 90 minutes, long enough to get everyone out safely.
How Many Emergency Exits Are Required in a Building?
This depends on your building’s size, layout and use. But in general:
- Spaces with over 100 occupants need at least two exits
- Multiple-storey or complex layouts need more
- All exits must have clear, illuminated signage visible at all times
Pro tip: Get a licensed electrician to inspect your layout to ensure you meet the National Construction Code (NCC) and AS/NZS 2293 standards.
Where Should Emergency Exit Signs Be Placed?
Exit signs must be:
- Above every exit door
- Clearly visible from any part of the room or hallway
- Installed at hallway junctions or direction changes
- Spaced regularly in long corridors
Do Emergency Exit Signs Need to Be Illuminated?
Yes, they must be on at all times. Exit signs are legally required to be lit 24/7, and must be connected to an emergency power source in case of outages.
Should Emergency Exit Lights Be On All the Time?
They should never be turned off. These lights are meant to operate continuously and automatically switch to battery power during emergencies. If your lights are off, it could be a sign of a system failure or installation issue.
How to Install Emergency Exit Lights
Only a licensed electrician can legally install these systems. At Maxxvolt Electrical, we handle:
- Power supply and battery wiring
- Mounting and placement
- Compliance testing and certification
How to Test and Check Emergency Exit Lights
Exit lights must be tested every 6 months by law. Testing includes:
- Simulating a power failure
- Ensuring the lights remain on for 90 minutes
- Logging the results in an official register
How to Turn Off Emergency Exit Lights
Emergency lights are not designed to be turned off casually. To shut them down for maintenance:
- Isolate the power at the electrical switchboard
- Disconnect under supervision of a licensed electrician
- Restore power and re-test after reinstallation
⚠️ Unauthorised shutdowns can breach safety codes.
Why Are Emergency Exit Signs Green?
Green is associated with “go” and safety. In low visibility or smoky conditions, green is more easily recognisable and reassuring than red or white.
“Do Not Block” and “Emergency Exit Only” Sign Rules
Certain signs are required to support emergency exits, including:
- “Do Not Block Emergency Exit” – keeps egress paths clear
- “Do Not Enter – Emergency Exit Only” – prevents misuse or entry through exits
These signs help enforce safety procedures and avoid dangerous obstructions.
How Are Emergency Exit Doors Equipped?
Exit doors must:
- Open in the direction of escape
- Be fitted with panic bars or lever-style handles
- Remain unlocked during business hours
- Be accompanied by illuminated signage
Where to Buy Emergency Exit Signs (and Why to Hire a Pro)
You can purchase exit signs through commercial electrical suppliers, but installation is not a DIY job. It must be installed and certified by a qualified electrician.
At Maxxvolt Electrical, we supply and install certified emergency lighting systems that meet all requirements across the Hills District and greater Sydney.
Need Emergency Exit Lights Installed or Tested in the Hills District?
At Maxxvolt Electrical, we help businesses stay compliant, safe, and prepared. Whether you’re upgrading an older building or fitting out a new space, our emergency lighting solutions are tailored for retail, offices, hospitality, and more.
