Exit signs & emergency lighting

Exit signs show where to go in an emergency

Exit signs are bright green, illuminated signs attached to ceilings above doorframes. They are designed to be seen easily, even if the power goes out.

Exit signs should:

• show where exits are located
• guide people out of a building
• be kept clear and easy to see
• work even in a power failure
• stay on long enough that people can get out safely.

Emergency lighting comes on in a power cut

Emergency lights are designed to light the path out of a building in an emergency.

They come on automatically when a building loses power.

Installing exit signs and emergency lighting

A building surveyor or other suitably qualified person can recommend where they should go.

They must be installed by an electrician.

Maintaining exit signs and emergency lighting

Exit signs and emergency lighting should be regularly maintained as per Australian Standards for Emergency Escape Lighting and Exit Signs for Buildings aka AS/NZS 2293.

Don't cover them up

Exit signs and emergency lighting should be easy to see and not covered up. This includes making sure the signs aren't covered by floor stock, pallet racking, flyers, decorations, partitions, filing systems or anything else.

Consider installing more exit signs or emergency lights if there is a permanent structure blocking or impacting the visibility of exit signs or emergency lighting.

Don't use exits and stairwells for storage

Keep exits and stairwells clear so that people can get out quickly and safely in an emergency.

What happens during an emergency

Both exit signs and emergency lighting should come on automatically during a power cut so people can get out quickly and safely.

Find out more about Exit signs, emergency lighting and other Essential Safety Measures (ESMs) at Building and Plumbing Conmmission.

Page last updated: Tuesday, 6 October 2026 10:17:16 AM