NFPA 101 requirement 1

Monthly: 30-second functional test of all battery-powered emergency lights and exit signs

NFPA 101 requirement 2

Annual: 90-minute load test (duration test) under simulated power failure

NFPA 101 requirement 3

Written log of each test retained for AHJ inspection

NFPA 101 requirement 4

Exit signs: illuminated at all times the building is occupied

NFPA 101 requirement 5

Means of egress: kept clear; required exit widths maintained

NFPA 101 requirement 6

Door hardware: panic hardware where required; no double-keyed deadbolts on egress doors

Code reference · Monthly + Annual

NFPA 101

Life Safety · Emergency Lighting

NFPA 101, the Life Safety Code, governs how people safely exit a building during a fire — exit widths, door hardware, travel distances, emergency lighting, and exit signage. For most building owners, the piece they interact with regularly is the emergency lighting and exit sign testing requirement in Section 7.9.

Key requirements

1
Monthly: 30-second functional test of all battery-powered emergency lights and exit signs
2
Annual: 90-minute load test (duration test) under simulated power failure
3
Written log of each test retained for AHJ inspection
4
Exit signs: illuminated at all times the building is occupied
5
Means of egress: kept clear; required exit widths maintained
6
Door hardware: panic hardware where required; no double-keyed deadbolts on egress doors

Official source

NFPA 101 — view at NFPA.org →

Reference only

Published summary for informational use. Fire code adoption varies by jurisdiction and edition. Verify current enforced codes with your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) and consult a licensed fire protection contractor before taking action. Not legal or professional advice.