Lighted exit signs

[Coppersmith]

Do lighted exit signs that have a battery backup require a dedicated circuit or is it OK to add to an existing lighting circuit?

I'm not sure where to look up code on this. A code reference would be helpful.

 

[LarryFine]

Do lighted exit signs that have a battery backup require a dedicated circuit or is it OK to add to an existing lighting circuit?

It's actually preferable, and usually required for exit signs and egress lighting to be on the local lighting circuit.

It's normally a building-code issue, so I'm not sure about where to find it.

 

[dkidd]

700.12(F) in 2014. I think 2020 changed the requirement.

 

[LarryFine]

700.12(F) in 2014. I think 2020 changed the requirement.

That helped. See: 700.12(F)(2)(3)

(3) The branch circuit feeding the unit equipment shall be
the same branch circuit as that serving the normal lighting
in the area and connected ahead of any local
switches.
Exception: In a separate and uninterrupted area supplied
by a minimum of three normal lighting circuits that are not
part of a multiwire branch circuit, a separate branch circuit
for unit equipment shall be permitted if it originates from
the same panelboard as that of the normal lighting circuits
and is provided with a lock-on feature.

 

[Coppersmith]

Can someone interpret 7.10.1.9 of the life safety code NFPA 101 for exit sign location:

"shall be located not more that 6'8" above the top edge of the egress opening"

Sounds like the sign can be 6'8" above the top of the door frame, i.e. about 14' above the floor. Is this correct?

 

[JGinIndy]

Can someone interpret 7.10.1.9 of the life safety code NFPA 101 for exit sign location:

"shall be located not more that 6'8" above the top edge of the egress opening"

Sounds like the sign can be 6'8" above the top of the door frame, i.e. about 14' above the floor. Is this correct?

Yes, good example would be a Lowe’s, Walmart, etc where it’s open to bottom of deck. It did sound odd the first time I read that when we did a Fed Ex Distribution years ago.