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International · National Fire Protection Association
NFPA Fire Code
Fire safety signage and emergency egress marking.
NFPA standards — including NFPA 1 (Fire Code), NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code) and NFPA 170 (Standard for Fire Safety and Emergency Symbols) — define how fire and emergency signage must look, where it must be placed and how visible it must be in smoke or power failure.
Where this standard applies
- High-rise buildings and large commercial complexes
- Hospitals, hotels and educational institutions
- Any facility certifying to NFPA / NBC fire safety
Key requirements
- 1Exit signs must be internally or externally illuminated and remain visible for at least 90 minutes of power failure (NFPA 101).
- 2Use NFPA 170 standard pictograms for fire alarm pull stations, extinguishers, hose reels and hydrants.
- 3Mount low-level exit path markings where smoke accumulation is expected (assembly, high-rise, healthcare).
- 4Post floor plans with 'You Are Here' egress diagrams on every floor of buildings under NFPA 101 occupancies.
Signal words & colours
| Signal | Meaning | Colour rule |
|---|---|---|
| EXIT | Marks the door or path to the exit. | Red or green letters, high-contrast background |
| FIRE | Location of firefighting equipment / alarm. | Red background, white pictogram |
| NO SMOKING | Prohibition — no ignition sources. | Red circle with diagonal bar |
Recommended signage
References
External links open the issuing authority. This guide is a plain-English summary — always refer to the official text for certification work.