Don't Get Stuck in the Dark: Benefits of Glow-in-the-Dark Exit Signs for Emergency Situations
Improving Emergency Evacuation Procedures
Emergency situations can happen at any moment and can occur in any building, regardless of whether it is a residential, commercial, or industrial space. When that moment occurs, having clear and visible exit signs can be the difference between life and death.
Among the various types of exit signs available on the market, photoluminescent technology is emerging as a reliable and cost-effective solution. In this article, we will explore what photoluminescent technology is, its advantages over other exit sign technologies, relevant data and statistics, and how building owners can use glow-in-the-dark exit signs to improve emergency evacuation procedures.
What is photoluminescent technology?
Photoluminescent technology is a type of exit sign technology that absorbs and stores energy from ambient light sources, such as fluorescent or LED lighting, and releases that energy in the form of visible light in low-light or no-light situations. This energy release makes the exit signs visible even in the absence of electricity, which makes it an excellent option for emergency situations.
Compared to other exit sign technologies such as incandescent, LED, or electroluminescent, photoluminescent technology does not require any electrical wiring or battery backup, making it a low-maintenance, cost-effective solution.
Advantages of photoluminescent technology in emergency situations
The advantages of photoluminescent technology over other exit sign technologies are numerous.
1. Reliability
Unlike other exit sign technologies, photoluminescent technology does not rely on electricity or batteries, which can fail during a power outage or disaster.
2. Visibility
Incandescent or LED exit signs require a power source, which can run out or be interrupted, rendering the signs invisible. Photoluminescent technology, on the other hand, remains visible even in low-light or no-light conditions.
3. Cost-effectiveness
Photoluminescent technology does not require any electrical wiring, which can reduce installation and maintenance costs over time. This makes it a more cost-effective solution than other exit sign technologies.
Studies have shown that the use of photoluminescent technology can improve visibility in emergency situations, thereby reducing evacuation times. According to a study by the International Code Council, photoluminescent technology has been found to improve visibility and reduce evacuation times by up to 75%. Additionally, according to the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the use of photoluminescent technology can reduce injury rates by up to 80%. This data suggests that the use of photoluminescent technology can save lives and prevent injuries during emergency situations.
How building owners should use glow-in-the-dark exit signs
Proper installation and maintenance of exit signs are crucial for ensuring that they remain visible during an emergency. The International Building Code (IBC) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provide guidelines for the installation, maintenance, and testing of exit signs in various types of buildings. Building owners should ensure that their exit signs comply with these guidelines to ensure maximum visibility during an emergency. Regular testing and maintenance of exit signs are also crucial to ensure that they remain visible and operational during an emergency.
How glow-in-the-dark exit signs can improve emergency evacuation procedures
The use of photoluminescent technology ensures that exit signs remain visible, even in low-light or no-light conditions. This visibility can help occupants quickly and safely navigate to the nearest exit. According to a case study by the University of Connecticut, the use of photoluminescent technology in a college dormitory improved evacuation times by up to 50%. Another case study by the University of Illinois found that the use of photoluminescent technology reduced evacuation times by up to 75% in a high-rise office building.
The use of photoluminescent technology for exit signs can significantly improve emergency evacuation procedures in various types of buildings. Building owners should ensure that their exit signs comply with the guidelines set by the IBC and NFPA and regularly test and maintain their exit signs to ensure maximum visibility. By implementing photoluminescent technology, building owners can take a significant step towards ensuring the safety of their occupants during an emergency.
Shop a wide selection of high-quality, UL-924 certified photoluminescent exit signs at Jessup Manufacturing’s online store, JessupMFG.com.
