There is often confusion over which colors are allowed when choosing an Exit sign for your building. Exit sign requirements vary by state and municipality, which is why it's important to check with your Fire Marshall to see whether Green Exit Signs
or Red Exit Signs are required in your building. The information below is for general guidance, only. For many, however, it is also important to get a “sense” of any color preference – so that your building is as consistent as possible with others in your area. Even though the European Union generally uses Green
Exit Signs (Red is used to specify prohibited actions), our UL 924 standards allow either Green Exit signs or Red Exit signs. Yet, localized codes often specify one or the
other.
State Summary
Pennsylvania, particularly Western Pennsylvania, recommends red Exit signs. Many states along the East Coast will have predominantly red Exit signs, although green has been more popular in some locations. Many eastern states recommend that you choose a color that contrasts with room colors to provide the greatest contrast and visibility, while other Fire Marshals insist that Exit sign backgrounds be as light as possible to provide a significant contrast. Ultimately, you should contact your fire marshal, but keeping contrast, visibility, and illumination in mind is necessary in any Pennsylvania Exit sign purchase.
