Safety signs — Code of practice for escape route signing
BS 5499-4•Status:CurrentAt a Glance
- Date Enacted
- 1 January 2013
- Enforcing Body
- BSI
- Maximum Penalty
- N/A (Standard)
- Jurisdiction
- UK-wide
- Citation
- BS 5499-4
- Status
- Current
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
Related Regulations
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 DetailsBS EN ISO 3864
Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety signs
Defines safety colours and design principles for safety signs. Four-part standard.
View Full DetailsBS ISO 17398
Safety colours and safety signs — Classification, performance and durability
Classifies photoluminescent sign materials (Classes A-D). Defines performance requirements.
View Full DetailsBS 5266
Emergency lighting
Code of practice for emergency lighting. Exit signs can be internally lit or photoluminescent.
View Full Details



