exit signs and nfpa 101

[gserve]

I need to install remote heads outside on the emergency backup combo exit signs on a garage I am wiring per nfta 101. Have never installed these before and need some advise. Because these are going to be wired on the low voltage side(backup) what type of wire can I use to feed them? The garage is being wired with MC. Has anyone wired these and can give me some advise. Thanks

 

[dezwitinc]

Exit Lights

Exit Lights

Make sure that your combo is rated for additional loads.
Too many heads and the batteries may become depleted in a short time.
Depending on the heads that you use, the mounting plate may fit a weatherproof round box or bell box.
Check your catalog or with your supplier and see what accessories are available for the head.
Any method approved for the location should work (depending on distance, you may want to consider voltage drop).

 

[John Arendt]

Gserve:
You need 'remote heads'; any good supply house will have them on the shelf, with the back plate. Remember you need two heads (or two bulbs) at each required egress.

You should have started with a exit/em combo that is FACTORY listed/labeled for remote head capability, so you can pass the 90 min test.

Wiring method should be Art 300. We use conduit thru wall & #10 THHN/THWN

John

 

[mdshunk]

Remember you need two heads (or two bulbs) at each required egress.

Really? I've seen both one and two heads drawn on prints at egress areas. I just put in whatever the little picture says. Got a code section? One footcandle (10 lux) is the only code I can find. Perhaps it's not possible to do this with one, 6 or 12 volt head?

 

[bmac71]

Really? I've seen both one and two heads drawn on prints at egress areas.

The vendor we use has both as well and either both can meet the 1FC requirement. Now we use the dual head outside just to give more than the 1FC requirement.

Also, as John Arendt stated make sure that your Emergency/Exit combo is rated for remote heads.

 

[wasasparky]

700.16
...Emergency lighting systems shall be designed and installed
so that the failure of any individual lighting element,
such as the burning out of a light bulb, cannot leave in total
darkness any space that requires emergency illumination.

 

[mdshunk]

700.16
...Emergency lighting systems shall be designed and installed
so that the failure of any individual lighting element,
such as the burning out of a light bulb, cannot leave in total
darkness any space that requires emergency illumination.

Ahhh... thank you very much!

 

[John Arendt]

Wasasparky:
Thank you much....I should have noted that the first time around.
FWIW, exterior luminaires with battery backup packs (factory) with only one em lamp illuminated also do not fly. Most, if not all jobs have two (2) fixtures at the egress doors to comply.
John