Code-compliant egress lighting covers two separate requirements: marking the way out and illuminating the path once the power fails. One fixture rarely does both well. NICOR, a manufacturer of commercial and industrial LED lighting and controls, addresses both with two new releases: the EXL1-Select Self-Diagnostic LED Emergency Exit Sign and the EML8 LED Super High Output Emergency Light, built to work side by side on the same egress path.

  • Both cULus listed under UL 924, NFPA 101 compliant
  • EXL1-Select: self-diagnostic testing, field-selectable red/green lettering
  • EML8: high output LEDs (1,200+ lumens) for higher mounting heights
  • Both: 90-minute emergency operation, 120/277VAC dual voltage
  • 1-year limited system warranty standard on each

Two Code Requirements, One Source

NFPA 101 (the Life Safety Code) requires occupants to be able to identify the exit and see the path to it during a power failure. Exit signs handle identification; emergency lights handle illumination. Specifying both from the same manufacturer simplifies ordering, warranty, and maintenance for facility managers and electrical contractors managing egress lighting across a commercial, multifamily, or retail property.

EXL1-Select: Self-Diagnostic LED Exit Sign

The EXL1-Select automatically performs the monthly and annual self-tests that UL 924 and NFPA 101 require, reducing the manual testing burden on facility staff. Field-selectable red and green lettering means one unit covers either requirement, a template and an internal LED switch set the color without ordering a separate SKU. The sign runs on a Ni-MH battery with low-voltage disconnect for 90-minute emergency operation, mounts with a universal quick-connect plate, and is available in white or black housings for single or double-face configurations.

EML8: High Output Emergency Light for Higher Mounting

The EML8 pairs with the exit sign to illuminate the egress path itself. High output LEDs deliver more than 1,200 lumens, enough to maintain NFPA 101’s required spacing (1 footcandle minimum, 40:1 max/min ratio) at mounting heights where a standard emergency light would fall short. Two adjustable heads (+25° to -90° tilt, 330° rotation) allow precise aiming along hallways, stairwells, or open retail floors, and NICOR publishes maximum spacing guidelines by mounting height to support layout planning before installation.

Specifying Both Together

Both fixtures share the same core electrical platform: 120/277VAC dual-voltage operation, 90-minute battery backup, LED self-test indicators, and cULus UL 924 listing. That overlap means a single spec section can cover both products’ compliance basis, and a facility standardizing on NICOR for egress lighting gets consistent testing procedures and battery life across exit marking and path illumination.

Warranty

Both the EXL1-Select and the EML8 carry NICOR’s 1-year limited system warranty standard.

Both fixtures are available now through NICOR’s agent and distributor network. Browse the full Exit Signs and Emergency Lighting lines, or see NICOR’s emergency lighting solutions for exit signs, battery backups, and full emergency lighting systems.

About NICOR Lighting

NICOR Lighting is a U.S.-based manufacturer of high-performance LED lighting and control solutions for residential, commercial, industrial, and outdoor applications. Since 1982, NICOR has helped customers bring projects to life through innovative products that balance performance, reliability, and value. From downlights and architectural fixtures to advanced lighting controls and energy-efficient systems, NICOR delivers solutions designed to meet the demands of today’s built environment.