How Does ‘Photoluminescence’ Work? 

Strontium Oxide Aluminate is the substance used in Active Safety photoluminescent products.  This substance absorbs light energy when exposed to artificial or natural light and then, when the light source is removed, it dissipates this energy by glowing brightly. 

On an atomic level, electrons in the strontium oxide aluminate molecular atoms are raised to a higher energy state by exposure to light.  When the light is removed these electrons revert back to their original energy state, releasing photons in the green-yellow part of the visible light spectrum. 

How Long do Active Safety Signs and Markers Glow for? 

The length of time a product glows depends upon the length of time it was exposed to a charging light source.  With a charge of 5 footcandles of light, UL [Underwriters Laboratories] requires exit signs that are listed to the UL-924 standard to glow at a minimum illumination level for 90 minutes after the charging light source is removed.  Practically, with a few minutes of exposure to a charging light source, photoluminescent products will glow for hours afterward, gradually losing illumination intensity.

Do Active Safety Photoluminescent Products contain Radioactive materials? 

No.  Active Safety products are environmentally friendly and do not contain any radioactive material.

Are There any Toxic, Hazardous or Regulated Materials in Active Safety Photoluminescent Products?  

No. The MSDS [Material Safety Data Sheet] for the photoluminescent material in Active Safety products describes the material as a non-irritating nuisance dust.  For all Active Safety products, the photoluminescent material is compounded into a durable plastic film.  Consequently, there is no direct exposure to the photoluminescent material – even though it is safe to handle. 

What is the Expected Lifespan of an Active Safety photoluminescent Exit Sign or Marker? 

Active Safety warrantees the photoluminescent properties of its products for 25 years. 

How Long Have Active Safety photoluminescent Exit Signs and Markers Been Used in Building Egress Systems in the USA?

Initially focused on low level applications, since the early 1990s Active Safety photoluminescent products have been used to designate safe egress to building occupants.  Active Safety photoluminescent high level exit signs were approved by NFPA, UL and most building codes in 2001. 

Can Active Safety photoluminescent Exit Signs Be Used in High Level Applications? 

Absolutely.  Exit signs manufactured by Active Safety that carry the UL-924 listing are approved for use in both high and low level exit sign applications. 

Can photoluminescent Exit Signs Replace LED and Tritium Exit Signs?

Absolutely.  And photoluminescent exit signs provide for a safer, less expensive and more sustainable installation.

What are the Best Locations for Photoluminescent Exit Signs?

Photoluminescent exit signs can be installed nearly anywhere an exit sign is required with some constraints. Here are popular locations :

Corridors, Hallways, Lobbies, Parking Garages, Stairwells, Airports, Amusement Parks, Classrooms, Conference Rooms, Gym and Fitness Facilities, Government Facilities, Hospitals, Industrial Plants, Offices, Retail Stores, Restaurants, Schools, Shopping Centers, and Warehouses.

In General, What Criteria Govern the Installation of a Photoluminescent Exit Sign? 

• The sign face must be illuminated by at least 5 foot-candles of artificial light from a “charging light source”  

• The charging light source is on whenever the building is occupied.

• The sign is UL listed and located in accordance with its viewing distance [typically 50 or 75 feet].

What Codes and Standards endorse the use of Photoluminescent Exit Signs? 

There are several and here is a list of the most important: 

NFPA 101                    Life Safety Code
UL – 924                      Emergency Lighting and Power Equipment
Energy Star                  Exit Sign Products
UFC                             Department of Defense Unified Facilities Criteria
FEMP                          Department of Energy Federal Energy Management Program 

Does the California State Fire Marshal Approve of Active Safety photoluminescent Exit Signs? 

Yes, Active Safety is listed with the California State Fire Marshal: Listing 6200-1632:100.

Please see our Codes and Standards section for a copy of this listing. 

Are LEED Credits Available for Using Active Safety photoluminescent Exit Signs? 

Absolutely.  Active Safety photoluminescent exit signs can help secure points in LEED Credits EA1, MR4 and maybe ID1.  Go to GREEN BUILDING LEED to find out more.