NFPA an OSHA Compliant Fire Extinguisher Signs

Ensure rapid identification of fire safety equipment with official Fire Extinguisher Signs. We stock the complete range of NFPA 170 standard signage, including flat wall signs, 3D Projecting (V-Shape) signs for hallway visibility, and Photoluminescent (Glow-in-the-Dark) options. Manufactured from durable rigid plastic or adhesive vinyl, these signs ensure your facility passes Fire Marshal inspections.
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NFPA 10 & OSHA Mounting Specifications

Per NFPA 10 Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers, location markers must be located in close proximity to the extinguisher and visible from the normal path of travel.

  • Vertical Height: Install the identification sign 60 to 80 inches above the finished floor (AFF). This height ensures the sign remains visible over the tops of standard office furniture, shelving, and machinery.
  • Relative Position: The sign should be mounted directly above the extinguisher bracket to create a clear vertical visual link.
  • Corridor Visibility: If the extinguisher is inside a cabinet or recessed niche, a 3D Projecting Sign must be mounted perpendicular to the wall to flag the location from both directions of the hallway.

Guide to NFPA 10 & OSHA Signage Requirements

In an emergency, seconds count. A fire extinguisher hidden behind a plant or obstructed by furniture is useless if it cannot be located immediately. OSHA Standard 1910.157(c)(1) and NFPA 10 require that all fire extinguishers be "conspicuously located" and "identified." If the extinguisher itself is not immediately visible from all angles of the room, a sign must be installed above it to mark the location.

Types of Visibility Markers

Choosing the right sign depends on the layout of your facility and the viewing angle:

  • Flat Wall Signs (2D): Best for open rooms where the viewer is facing the wall directly. Available in rigid plastic or self-adhesive vinyl.
  • Projecting / 3D Signs (L-Shape or V-Shape): Mandatory for long hallways, corridors, or large warehouses. These signs project 45-90 degrees from the wall, allowing the location to be seen from 180 degrees (both directions of travel).
  • Photoluminescent (Glow-in-the-Dark): These absorb ambient light and glow brightly during power outages. Many local fire codes and the IBC now mandate "Glow" signage for egress paths and safety equipment identification.

Installation Height & Placement

The goal of the sign is to be seen over obstructions (like cubicles, shelving, or machinery).

  • Height: While the extinguisher itself has a maximum mounting height of 5 feet, the Identification Sign should be mounted higher—typically 6 to 8 feet above the floor. This ensures it is visible from across the room, above the heads of occupants.
  • Alignment: The sign must be installed directly above the extinguisher (on the same vertical axis). Do not offset it, as this can cause confusion during a panic.

NFPA 170 Symbol Standards

Our signs utilize the standard NFPA 170 Fire Safety Symbols. This includes the graphical "Fire Extinguisher" icon (red/white) and the directional arrow pointing down. Using universal graphical symbols ensures the equipment can be located by anyone, regardless of language barriers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions regarding MUTCD compliance, installation standards, and material specifications for regulatory signage.
How high should I mount the Fire Extinguisher sign?

Unlike the extinguisher itself (which must be reachable), the sign should be mounted high enough to be seen from a distance. The industry standard is 60 to 80 inches above the floor, or high enough to clear visual obstructions like cubicle walls or shelving units.
When is a "3D Projecting" sign required?

Projecting signs (V-Shape or L-Shape) are required in corridors, hallways, or large aisles where a flat wall sign would disappear from view. If a person walking down a hallway cannot see the location marker until they are standing directly in front of it, you need a 3D sign.
Do I need "Glow in the Dark" signs?

Check your local municipal code. Many jurisdictions (especially for hotels, hospitals, and high-rise buildings) now adopt IBC and IFC codes that require photoluminescent signage for all life safety equipment to ensure visibility during a total power failure or smoke condition.

Need specific code assistance?

If your project requires a specific State DOT certification or a specialized variation not listed here, please contact our Compliance Support Team for a custom specification sheet.