On parking garage roof level, we have exterior exit signs at stairwell directing people to go down stair. Can we have this exit sign be controlled by photocell instead of leave it "on" all the time? Will this violate any rules of NFPA-101 (life-safety code)? Thanks!
switched exit sign
- Thread starter anbm
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- Logan, Utah
Here is what the 2009 IBC says in regards to illuminated exit signs.
Chris
Chris
Volta
Senior Member
- Location
- Columbus, Ohio
I assume that there is no battery backup, otherwise Section 700.12(F) has some poor wording, IMO, but the third paragraph says, "... 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..."
For obvious battery reasons.
I don't consider an Exit sign to be a "light" unless a combo unit. but 700.22 allows a photocontrol for exterior lights not required for illumination when there is sufficient daylight.
For obvious battery reasons.
I don't consider an Exit sign to be a "light" unless a combo unit. but 700.22 allows a photocontrol for exterior lights not required for illumination when there is sufficient daylight.
Here is what NFPA-101 says about exit sign control, i am wondering since photocell is an automatic device to control the lights, it is not a regular on/off light switch that someone can easily to play with or access... so can it be exempted? It doesn't make sense to me leave exerior exit sign "on" all the time even code says so.
7.10.5.2* Continuous Illumination.
7.10.5.2.1 Every sign required to be illuminated by 7.10.6.3, 7.10.7, and 7.10.8.1 shall be continuously illuminated as required under the provisions of Section 7.8, unless otherwise provided in 7.10.5.2.2.
A.7.10.5.2 It is the intent to prohibit a freely accessible light switch to control the illumination of either an internally or externally illuminated exit sign.
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