Fire Exit Sign Requirements for UK Businesses: A 2025 Guide

Fire safety is a legal obligation for every UK employer. Whether you manage an office, warehouse, shop, or school, clearly marked fire exits are essential to protect lives and comply with regulations.

In this guide, we’ll explain the UK fire exit sign laws, what your business must display in 2025, and how to stay compliant with the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996.

Why Are Fire Exit Signs Important?

In the event of a fire or emergency, confusion and poor visibility can cause panic. Fire exit signs provide clear, visual instructions that guide people to safety — especially when every second counts.

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, employers must ensure all emergency exits are properly signposted and unobstructed. Failure to comply can lead to enforcement notices, fines, or criminal prosecution.

What Does UK Law Say About Fire Exit Signs?

• Signs must comply with BS EN ISO 7010 for consistency and recognisability.
• They must include the running man pictogram and directional arrows if applicable.
• Signs must be visible, well-lit, and placed above or beside exit doors.
• All exit routes, not just final exits, must be clearly marked.

Need more detail? Refer to the HSE guidance on fire safety signs (HSG168).

Types of Fire Exit Signs You Need

➡️ Fire Exit with Left or Right Arrow

Used to indicate which direction to take towards the nearest safe exit. Place these along corridors and junctions.
Shop Fire Exit Arrow Signs »

⬆️ Fire Exit Straight Ahead Signs

Installed when the nearest exit is directly ahead, such as at the end of a hallway or stairwell.

🚪 Fire Exit Door Signs

Display above or on final exit doors to identify the actual exit point.

🔌 Photoluminescent Signs

Consider using glow-in-the-dark signs for poorly lit areas or to ensure visibility during power failure.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using outdated or non-ISO compliant signage
• Blocking or obscuring fire exit signs with furniture or stock
• Forgetting to mark intermediate exit routes
• Failing to update signage when layouts change

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• ✅ Fully compliant with UK HSE regulations
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Keep your premises safe, compliant, and easy to evacuate — because fire safety isn’t optional.