Published:
11 August 2014
Category:
Trade Talk
Question from Voltimum user: What is the ruling on mixing EXIT and running man exit signs in a building?

Answer provided by Ben Brady, Product Manager at OSRAM Australia. - See more at: http://www.voltimum.com.au/articles/motion-sensors#sthash.GVflh31r.dpuf
Answer provided by John McKenna, Technical Manager at Stanilite.
Running Man or Pictograph Exit signage was implemented in the 2005 edition of AS2293, and was referenced in the Building Code of Australia (now the National Construction Code) the following year. At the time this was referenced in the BCA, the Australian Buildings Code Board (who administers the Building Code) did not make any specific provisions regarding the mixing of signs (EXIT and Running Man) in a existing building. In other words, an existing installation could have a mixture of EXIT and Running Man sings and still comply with the requirements of the BCA. In new buildings it is required that Running Man signs be used. For an existing building that is subject to a development application whereby it is a requirement that all services be upgraded to meet current regulations, then this would require that all EXIT signs be replaced with Running Man signage.
The advice above is a general overview of the issue, and there may be differences in requirements at a State and local government level. Advice should be sought from the local regulator that administers building compliance for rulings on specific instances.