Why Photoluminescence Over Traditional Emergency Backup Lighting- LSS®

Part of a building’s overall fire and life safety plan is making sure that your building has a safe evacuation route clearly marked. Photoluminescent egress path markers and exit signs are the best way to ensure that people will be able to find their way to safety during a fire. However, in existing buildings, there may already be emergency lighting in place. So then, why switch to photoluminescence when traditional emergency lighting has worked in the past?

TRADITIONAL EMERGENCY BACKUP LIGHTING

• Traditional backup lighting systems are usually battery powered or electrical emergency lighting that may experience partial, or even total failure and have a limited operating time.
• Electrical lighting casts shadows on steps and can actually slow down egress speeds.
• High mounted emergency exit signs can be masked by fire and smoke.
• When drained, an emergency light battery could take up to several days to recharge.
• Traditional backup systems may require annual inspection and regular replacement of bulbs, exit sign batteries or generators.

PHOTOLUMINESCENT EGRESS PATH MARKERS AND EXIT SIGNAGE (PL)

• Meets requirements for codes and standards in existing and new buildings.
• PL egress path markings create an outline of hard to see obstacles such as steps, landings, doors and critical information such as a change in floor level or direction.
• PL exit signs can contribute to LEED Credits
• Reuses existing light to recharge
• Require no electrical power or maintenance
• Doesn’t need to rely on any emergency backup system
• Glows up to 48 hours in smoky / black out condition
• Non-toxic or radioactive

During a fire, flames and smoke can quickly fill hallways and stairwell, which then become dark and difficult to navigate. Since smoke rises, it can cause occupants to become disorientated and cloud their vision. Not to mention, accidents and injuries are more likely to occur during blackout or smoky conditions as occupants struggle to find their way to safety.

Photoluminescent egress path marking systems and exit signs allows a building to have continuous visual support without electricity by producing sunlight or recycling existing electrical light. Not only are they very low maintenance, but they help guide occupants to safety while illuminating any obstacles that may cause people to trip and fall during an emergency. So whether you work in the hospitality industry, an office building or even a healthcare facility, it is important to include photoluminescent egress path marking systems and exit signs in your building’s fire safety plan.