Professionally produced signs are not the only thing that you will need to install in a building to make it safe from fire. Australian fire regulations also include equipment for dealing with fires, such as fire extinguishers, fire blankets and sprinkler systems. Nonetheless, signs are an important aspect of any fire safety regime in a large building. Schools, hotels, shopping malls and government buildings all need to have proper signage installed in order to instruct people of what they need to do in the event of a fire.

Of course, waymarking with exit signage is not just crucial if a fire were to break out. It is equally as important in other situations where the building might need to be vacated in an emergency, such as a terror incident. What do you need to know about the regulations governing fire safety signs today?

Fire Doors

The first thing to know is that if the building has been designed with fire doors, then the correct signage must be in place to denote which ones they are. In the event of a blaze, all fire doors must be closed, so the signage must indicate that this is the function they have been designed for. Fire doors with incorrect signage won't comply with the National Construction Code, so you must fit them when a building is refurbished and replace any that become damaged. Remember that these signs increase awareness of the role of fire doors even if there is no emergency underway. They could ultimately save lives by preventing people from propping them open for periods and forgetting they have been left open.

Fire Exits

As well as fire doors, all fire exits must display the correct signage. In Australia, this means a sign must be placed on both the inside of the door as well as the outside. The wording that is required on fire exit signage is, "Fire Safety Door", as well as, "Do Not Obstruct", and, "Do Not Keep Open". All of the wording must be clearly visible with none of it being covered by things that are in the way. Ideally, such signs will be displayed at eye level so that people are able to notice them easily.

Local Regulations

Not all of the states in Australia require the same amount of signage. In your state, further fire safety signage rules may apply, such as displaying a sign detailing the legal offences that relate to fire exits. This is an additional requirement in New South Wales, for example. Confirm the local regulations with the Australian Building Codes Board if you have any doubts.