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OBC DIVISION B · PART 3 · SECTION 3.4 — EXITS

What are the exit sign requirements under the Ontario Building Code?

Exit doors in larger buildings must be marked by internally or externally illuminated signs using the green running-man pictogram, visible from the egress path, lit whenever the building is occupied, and supplemented by directional signs where the exit is not visible.

Code reference
Exits must be identified by signs conforming to the standardized green pictogram, placed over or adjacent to exit doors and along corridors where the direction of travel to the exit is not obvious. Signs must remain illuminated while the building is occupied and be connected to an emergency power source or be self-powered so they stay visible during power failure.
OBC Division B, Subsection 3.4.5.

Paraphrased for clarity — open this provision in the BUILDAiD Library for the exact wording.

What this means in practice

Ontario adopted the green running-man pictogram, replacing red EXIT lettering for new construction, so specify ISO-style photoluminescent or LED fixtures accordingly. Plan sign locations with sightlines in mind: long corridors, corridor turns and open floor areas typically need directional signs, and floor numbering signage inside exit stairs is a related requirement. Tie exit lighting into the emergency power design, and coordinate mounting heights with ceilings, bulkheads and signage from other disciplines.

Plain language

Those glowing green signs with the running figure must mark every exit and point the way along hallways, and they have to stay lit even when the power fails, so people can follow them through smoke or darkness.

Related questions

When are two exits required from a floor area in Ontario?How is required exit width calculated under the Ontario Building Code?How many exits does a floor area need under the Ontario Building Code?

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This page is provided for general information. Building code requirements depend on your specific project, occupancy and municipality, and code editions change. Always verify requirements against the current Ontario Building Code and confirm with your local building department.