During power outages, which components ensure visibility of egress paths?

• A. Exit signs
• B. Emergency lighting
• C. Smoke control
• D. Ventilation

Answer: (B)

When power fails, the ability to see where you’re going becomes critical for safe egress. Emergency lighting provides illumination along escape routes—corridors, stairs, and exits—so people can find and follow the path to safety even without normal power. It’s backed by independent power sources (batteries or generators) and is designed to stay on for a specified duration, ensuring visibility throughout the evacuation. While exit signs may be lit as part of the overall emergency lighting system, their role is to indicate direction, not to illuminate the entire path. Smoke control and ventilation help with air flow and reducing smoke, but they don’t address visibility.