By Brad Keyes / Special to Healthcare Facilities Today

Q: Can illuminated ‘Exit’ signs be replaced with photoluminescent "exit" signs? If so, does this eliminate the requirement for monthly inspections of "exit" signs?

A: Photoluminescent ‘Exit’ signs are permitted, provided they meet the requirements of 7.10.7.2 of the 2012 Life Safety Code, which requires constant illumination from an external source while the building is occupied. This illumination must be connected to emergency power for healthcare occupancies. You really don’t gain anything by using photoluminescent ‘Exit’ signs over traditional internally illuminated ‘Exit’ signs because section 7.10.9.1 requires all ‘Exit’ signs to be inspected monthly to ensure they still have a source of illumination.

I do not recommend using photoluminescent "Exit" signs.

Brad Keyes, CHSP, is the owner of KEYES Life Safety Compliance, and his expertise is in the management of the Life Safety Program, including the Environment of Care and Emergency Management programs.