Illuminated Exit Signs
The Department of Energy (DOE) has regulated the energy efficiency level of illuminated exit signs since 2005. Illuminated exit signs are used to indicate exit doors in schools, hospitals, libraries, government buildings, and commercial buildings of all kinds, including offices, restaurants, stores, auditoriums, stadiums, and movie theatres.
Recent Updates | Standards | Test Procedures | Waiver, Exception, and Exemption Information | Statutory Authority | Historical Information | Contact Information
There are no recent updates for this equipment.
Standards for Illuminated Exit Signs
The following content summarizes the energy conservation standards for illuminated exit signs. The text is not an official reproduction of the Code of Federal Regulations and should not be used for legal research or citation.
Current Standard
Illuminated exit signs manufactured and distributed in commerce, as defined by 42 U.S.C. 6291(16), on or after January 1, 2006, must meet the energy conservation standards specified in the Code of Federal Regulations, 10 CFR 431.206 and shall have an input power demand of 5 watts or less per face.
- Final Rule: Standards, Federal Register, 70 FR 60407 (Oct. 18, 2005)
- Docket No. EERE-2005-0002 contains all notices, public comments, public meeting transcripts, and supporting documents.
Current Test Procedure
To determine compliance with DOE standards, manufacturers must follow the test procedures specified at 10 CFR 431.204 for illuminated exit signs manufactured or distributed into commerce.
For further guidance or to submit questions related to the implementation of this test procedure, visit the Guidance and Frequently Asked Questions page.
Waivers
No test procedure waivers have been issued for illuminated exit signs.
For information about obtaining test procedure waivers, see 10 CFR 431.401.
Exceptions
DOE's Office of Hearings and Appeals has not authorized exception relief for illuminated exit signs.
For information about obtaining exception relief, see 10 CFR part 1003.
State Exemptions to Federal Pre-emption
DOE has not exempted any states from this energy conservation standard. States may petition DOE to exempt a state regulation from preemption by the Federal energy conservation standard. States may also petition DOE to withdraw such exemptions. For details, see CFR part 431, subpart W.
The current energy conservation standards for illuminated exit signs are mandated by Part A, the ‘‘Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products Other Than Automobiles’’ of Title III of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA), as amended. (42 U.S.C. § 6291–6309) These appliances are treated as covered products under Part A. (42 U.S.C. 6295(w))
The Energy Policy Act of 2005 amended EPCA to mandate test procedures for illuminated exit signs and to require illuminated exit signs manufactured on or after January 1, 2006, to meet energy conservation standards.
Helpful Links and Contact Information
Helpful Links
Find tips and guidance for making your home, workplace, or vehicle more energy efficient visit EnergySavers.gov.
For more information related to the regulation of this product, please email:
illuminated_exit_signs@ee.doe.gov
