Exit signs

Energy Efficiency Regulations

Regulatory definition

Exit sign, a device used in buildings to identify the most direct path of egress for emergency purposes.  Exit signs contain a legend and optional directional indicator(s).  Exit signs are considered to be internally illuminated if the legend (and optional directional indicator) or background, or both, are illuminated by a light source contained within the assembly supporting the legend and optional directional indicator.

It does not include an exit sign that:

• flashes
• is photoluminescent, or
• is radioluminescent

Compliance date

Manufactured on or after November 1, 2004

For models manufactured prior, refer to the Regulations

Compliant product models

Exit signs as listed on NRCan’s searchable database

Testing standard

CSA C860-11

Energy efficiency standard

Energy performance standard for exit signs

Product type	Maximum wattage (watts)
1 or 2	≤5 × (number of legends)
3	≤ 5 × (number of legends) + 5

Legend means any of the following that is displayed on an exit sign: (a) a representation of a running person, as described in Annex B.1 of the CSA standard CSA C22.2 No. 141 entitled Emergency lighting equipment; and (b) the word “EXIT” or “SORTIE”.

Type 1 exit sign — an internally illuminated exit sign that is permanently connected to a normal source of power (usually ac).

Type 2 exit sign — an internally illuminated exit sign that is permanently connected to a normal source of power (usually ac) and a separate source of power (usually dc) that is activated upon failure of the normal power supply. Type 2 exit signs include those supplied as a component of a combination of an exit sign and unit equipment.

Type 3 exit sign — an internally illuminated exit sign that is permanently connected to a normal source of power (usually ac) and is provided with a factory-installed emergency battery pack.  The internal power supply can consist of an automatic load-control device, storage battery, and means for charging the battery.

Energy efficiency report requirements

• name of product
• brand name
• model number
• manufacturer
• name of the certification body or province whose verification mark will be on the product or its package
• whether a mathematical model as defined in the Regulations was used to generate any of the information provided below
• type
• power consumption, expressed in watts
• number of legends

Download the energy efficiency reporting template.

This document does not constitute part of the Energy Efficiency Act (Act) or its associated regulations. This document is an administrative document that is intended to facilitate compliance by the regulated party with the Act and its associated regulations. This document is not intended to provide legal advice regarding the interpretation of the Act or its associated regulations. If a regulated party has questions about their legal obligations or responsibilities under the Act or its associated regulations, they should seek the advice of legal counsel.