A directional arrow on a Fire Exit Signs typically indicates the direction one should move toward to reach the nearest exit or escape route. Fire Exit directional arrow signs are available in various different arrow directions, however a common question we get asked is if one should use an UP or DOWN arrow above a doorway?
When to use an "Up Arrow" Fire Exit Sign:
An Up Arrow Fire Exit Sign would be placed above a door to indicate that individuals should move through that door and proceed in a straight on, or straight-on and upward direction to reach the nearest exit or escape route. Up Arrow fire exit signs, whilst still being very prevelant, are less common than "Down Arrows" because during emergencies, the primary direction of evacuation is usually downwards or horizontally towards ground-level exits or safe assembly areas.
When to use a "Down Arrow" Fire Exit Sign
More commonly used, the Down Arrow Fire Exit Sign indicates that individuals should pass through the door and proceed in a downward direction to reach the nearest exit or safe area during an emergency. This sign is often used on upper levels of a building, guiding individuals to the nearest staircase or escape route leading downstairs or to ground-level exits.
The choice of using an "up" or "down" arrow on a fire exit sign will depend on the building's layout, the location of the exit routes, and the most direct path to safety in case of an emergency evacuation.
