Emergency Exit Signs Must Be Lit Up! Pre-Inspection Tips For Businesses.

Just because you have emergency exit signs placed above your emergency exit doors does not mean that you are in code compliance in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, or anywhere else, for that matter.  In the event you are inspected by the fire marshal, he or she will check to see if your emergency exit signs have bulbs that work!  Before your place of business is inspected, here are some things you need to check.

1. Do your emergency exit doors have lit signs above them?  If not, call your electrician.
2. Is access to these emergency exits hindered by trash cans, merchandise, boxes, or equipment? If your doors cannot be exited in an emergency, there is really no reason to have them to start with.
3. Can a person fleeing your building exit the emergency exit door in ONE MOTION?  That is what codes stipulate for emergency exits.  A person fleeing the building for whatever reason should not have to remove a security exit device, unlock a deadbolt, and then turn a lever in order to escape.  Such a sequence would take three motions.
4. Are your exit alarms (Detex or Alarm Lock) working properly?  These devices incorporate a deadbolt that is retracted when a person leaving the building hits a paddle on the device.  Some inspectors will cite you for a violation if this alarm does not sound. (Call A-Best Locksmith if you need a Detex EAX-500 or the exit paddle model - I can beat anybody's price and have it drop shipped to you!)
5. Is the door sticking because of corrosion or rust?
6. Is the door closer functioning properly? (If not, get the name on it and call me for a cost-effective replacemement.)

I hope this information has been helpful. In the event you need locks, levers, panic bars, exit devices, or closers, please call David at 615-308-6794 and let me beat everybody's prices!