The fire exit signs, also called fire safety signs or emergency exit signs for safe exit routes, are designed to clearly indicate the direction of an exit in the event of a fire or other emergency that requires a quick exit from a building. Fire exit signs are a key part of health and safety in the workplace and must be identified by law.

People usually leave premises in the same way that they enter or by routes which are familiar to them. For this reason, any alternative exits (ie all emergency exits and any exits not in normal use) should be clearly indicated so that people know there are additional ways to leave. In addition, the provision of well-signposted exits in full view will give a feeling of security in case of an emergency.

Make sure the fire exit signs are displayed immediately above the exit opening or, if this is not possible, choose a position where the sign can be clearly seen and is least likely to be obstructed or obscured by smoke.

Where an exit cannot be seen or where a person escaping may be in doubt about the location of an exit (eg in warehouses where goods for transit and other obstructions may prevent a clear view of the exit doors), fire exit signs, including a directional arrow, are appropriate at suitable points along the escape route.

The directional arrows are used with the pictogram to form the sign.