All Exit signs must meet NFPA, ANSI and ICC standards.
The National Fire Protection Agency is an international non-profit that provides a standard for the regulation of fire, electrical and building codes. These guidelines are followed by businesses and private citizens to prevent accidents and limit hazards. Although NFPA does not have the authority to enforce codes, many governing agencies in the United States adopt NFPA content and language in their codes.
Restrooms as a Exit
Restrooms that contain are required to abide by the same codes as all other exits in reference to markings, illumination, height, width, level surface, handicapped accessibility and structure. If the door is identifiable as an exterior door, no signage is required. However, if this door could be mistaken for an interior door, there must be a tactile sign, which has a combination of text and braille or embossing. The sign should read "Exit" and comply with the standards of the American National Standards Institute and International Code Council in regards to color, shape and illumination. Additional requirements are located in Chapter 7 of NFPA's Code, under "Means of Egress." (See Resources)
Restrooms Without an Exit
Restrooms that do not have exterior doors must have appropriate signage directing traffic toward the nearest safe area. Depending on the distance from the safe route, arrows and Exit signs may be used. Even without an exterior door, some bathrooms may qualify as evacuation areas if they have an appropriate level of fire resistance. New structures are advised to include NFPA regulations concerning escape routes in initial planning.
Residencial Buildings
Although the Life Safety Code includes instructions for apartments and condominiums, there are no requirements regarding signage in residential restrooms. However, state and county regulations may provide further instructions.
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