Fire safety signage looks like a minor thing, but it has significance for fire protection. During emergencies, clear signage helps occupants and visitors know exactly what they need to do, where they should go or even the equipment that is available right away. The correct signage is important in demonstrating fire safety compliance for owners, landlords and facilities managers.
These signs direct people to the nearest safe exit. They should be positioned:
Over exit doors and escape routes
Within any non-line of sight areas (doorways, elevation changes)
In areas along the route that aren’t clear (like lengthy corridors or wide-open spaces)
They need to be in plain view and unobstructed, the same from one end of your building to another. Illuminated and photoluminescent signs may be necessary if the premises are used in low light situations.
2) “Fire door keep shut” and “Fire door keep locked”
Fire doors help control the spread of smoke and fire in a building, so occupied areas can be evacuated safely. Signs should be fitted:
On fire doors in corridors and stairwells
Plant room doors in high risk areas (Kitchens, Stores etc)
For doors that are metal beams (or the like) preventing entry;
3) Fire action notices
These tell people what to do if they find a fire (raise the alarm, call 999/112, get out of the building and not use lifts). Place them:
Beside manual call points (break glass points)
Near fire alarm panels
All common areas and decision-making locations (front desk, lobbies, staff rooms)
4) Fire equipment signs
These mark the location of extinguishers, hose reels, fire blankets and alarm call points. They should be:
Above or next to the equipment
Visible from the approach route. For a Fire Risk Assessment Bristol, visit //keloscape.co.uk/areas-we-cover/fire-safety-consultancy-bristol/
5) Mandatory and warning signs
These are designed to promote safe behaviour and reduce risk
Signs on or near access points into properties, bin stores and communal greens
Storage areas with warning signs that read “Flammable materials” or ”Fire hazard.”
If you have a specific fire assembly point, make sure there is clear signage directing it outside of the building and away from regular access routes for emergency services.
The bottom line
From the entry to the exit, fire safety signs must be clear and consistent with positioning aligned so the viewer does not need to struggle to find the signage. A fire risk assessment will confirm exactly what you need, providing details of the appropriate signs and positions for your particular premises.