Ensure safe emergency egress with a compliant “Use Stairway” sign. Required in many NYC buildings, this sign directs occupants away from elevators and toward stairwells during emergencies, helping meet fire code requirements and improving life safety visibility throughout exit routes. Dimensions: 4" x 9.875" Materials: Printed Vinyl Mounted on to .03125in Aluminum What This Sign is For: The “Use Stairway” sign is used to direct building occupants to utilize stairways instead of elevators during emergencies, particularly fires. Elevators may become unsafe or inoperable, making stairways the primary and safest means of egress. Legal Requirement Explained: This sign is required under the NYC Building Code (BC §1003, §1023) and NYC Fire Code, which mandate clear and continuous means of egress signage. In emergency conditions, occupants must be guided toward safe exit routes, and signage plays a critical role in ensuring that stairways are used instead of elevators.The sign reinforces life safety protocols by reducing confusion and directing occupants toward protected exit enclosures designed to remain functional during emergencies. Who is Required to Post This Sign: - Commercial buildings- High-rise buildings- Multifamily residential buildings with shared corridors- Buildings equipped with elevators- Any structure where stairways serve as the primary emergency exit path Where We Recommend This Sign Be Posted: - Near elevator lobbies to discourage elevator use during emergencies- At or near stairway entrances- Along egress routes where direction toward stairways is necessary- In areas where occupants may otherwise default to elevators instead of exitsPlacement must ensure the sign is clearly visible during normal and emergency conditions. Unacceptable Locations to Post This Sign: - Inside rooms or areas not part of the egress path- Behind doors, walls, or obstructions that limit visibility- In low-traffic areas where occupants will not see it during evacuation- Mounted in locations where it may be confused with non-emergency signage- Installed too far from elevators or stair access points to be effective Recommended Height / Installation Requirements: - Typically mounted at eye level (approximately 48”–60” above finished floor to centerline)- Must be clearly legible, with sufficient contrast- Should be permanently affixed (not temporary or removable)- Must remain unobstructed and visible at all times- In some buildings, may be required to be illuminated or photoluminescent depending on egress system design Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance and SEO purposes only and is based on commonly referenced provisions of the NYC Building Code, NYC Fire Code, and applicable standards. Specific requirements may vary based on building occupancy, classification, and site conditions. Always consult a licensed professional or local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) to confirm compliance for your project.
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