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HomeLegislation LibraryBS 5499-4
British & International StandardsTechnical Standard

Safety signs — Code of practice for escape route signing

Short: BS 5499-4•Citation: BS 5499-4•Status:Current

At a Glance

Date Enacted
1 January 2013
Enforcing Body
BSI
Maximum Penalty
N/A (Standard)
Jurisdiction
UK-wide
Citation
BS 5499-4
Status
Current
Sign Types Affected
All Types
Hierarchy Level
Primary Legislation(3)Core Management Regulations(1)The Six Pack(6)Specialist Regulations(13)Standards(7)Guidance(0)

What This Means for You

BS 5499-4 provides a comprehensive code of practice for the design, installation, and maintenance of escape route signage. Its primary purpose is to ensure that building occupants can quickly and safely evacuate in the event of an emergency. The standard covers various aspects, including the visibility, legibility, and placement of signs, as well as the use of appropriate colours and symbols. It emphasizes the importance of a clear and consistent signage system that guides individuals to safe exit points, taking into account factors such as building size, layout, and occupancy. The standard aims to minimize confusion and panic during emergencies by providing clear, unambiguous directions. It also addresses the need for regular inspection and maintenance to ensure the continued effectiveness of the escape route signage system. This standard is crucial for building owners, managers, and health and safety professionals responsible for ensuring the safety of occupants.

Signage Requirements

  • Signs must be easily visible and legible under all likely lighting conditions, including emergency lighting.
  • Escape route signs should use the running man symbol (ISO 7010) to indicate the direction of escape.
  • Signs must be positioned along escape routes at regular intervals and at changes in direction.
  • The size of the sign must be appropriate for the viewing distance.
  • Signs must be made from durable materials that can withstand the expected environmental conditions.
  • The colour and contrast of the sign must comply with BS EN ISO 3864-1 to ensure visibility and recognition.
  • Signs must be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure they are clean, undamaged, and properly illuminated.

Official Resources

View on legislation.gov.ukFull legal text

Related Regulations

Standards

BS EN ISO 7010

Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety signs — Registered safety signs

Defines graphical symbols for safety signs. The universal language of safety signage.

View Full Details
Standards

BS EN ISO 3864

Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety signs

Defines safety colours and design principles for safety signs. Four-part standard.

View Full Details
Standards

BS ISO 17398

Safety colours and safety signs — Classification, performance and durability

Classifies photoluminescent sign materials (Classes A-D). Defines performance requirements.

View Full Details
Standards

BS 5266

Emergency lighting

Code of practice for emergency lighting. Exit signs can be internally lit or photoluminescent.

View Full Details

At a Glance

Date Enacted
1 January 2013
Enforcing Body
BSI
Maximum Penalty
N/A (Standard)
Jurisdiction
UK-wide
Citation
BS 5499-4
Status
Current
Sign Types Affected
All Types

Where This Fits

Primary Legislation(3)Core Management Regulations(1)The Six Pack(6)Specialist Regulations(13)Standards(7)Guidance(0)
View Full Library

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  • Fire Safety Signs
  • Photoluminescent Signs
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