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Use of photoluminescent markings for exit stairways in buildings
Bénichou, N.; Burrows, J.
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U se of phot olum ine sc e nt m a rk ings for e x it st a irw a ys in buildings
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B é n i c h o u , N . ; B u r r o w s , J .
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Solplan Review, (152), June, pp. 18-19, June 01, 2010
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Use of Photoluminescent Markings for Exit Stairways in Buildings By Noureddine Benichou and John Burrows
The National Research Council’s Institute for Research in Construction has published an online guide on the installation of photoluminescent markings (PLM) in buildings and the
requirements for satisfactory performance.
Photoluminescent material emits light for a length of time following excitation by light after the light source has been removed. In fire safety, the most promising uses for photoluminescent materials are safety markings such as exit signs, directional signage, door markings, pathway markings, obstruction identification and other elements that comprise a safety way-guidance system. In blackouts resulting from power failures or fires, photoluminescent safety markings in the form of paint, plastic strips and signs can aid evacuation by guiding and directing people to safer locations (Figure 1).
Figure 1. Emergency lighting (upper left) and examples of PLM guidance in the event of power failure
The markings are not designed to provide enough light to illuminate a dark egress path, but rather to provide luminescent signs and outlines of the egress path, stairs, handrails, and obstacles, so that occupants can discern these features in dark conditions. The markings are in addition to, and not a substitute for, signage required under the National Building Code of Canada.
While the guide was developed primarily for federal office buildings, it can aid in the design and installation of photoluminescent markings in other types of buildings with enclosed exit stairways as means of egress.
The guide describes the principles governing the design and application of PLM exit path markings such as:
• Continuity: Markings should be placed in a continuous and unbroken manner along the escape routes of a building.
• Visual reinforcement: PLM signs and directional indicators should be spaced in such a way as to provide consistency and continuity of information.
• Location: PLM markings are used on exit door handles or opening devices, exit door frames, leading edges of steps, landings (see Figure 2), handrails, exit signs, and obstacles. Markings should be positioned at low locations for optimum visibility in smoky conditions. Signs and indicators, which are usually located at mid-floor height or close to ceilings, should be placed so as to ensure visual reinforcement.
Figure 2. Example of PLM landing markings
• Visibility and colour: PLM markings should have a “safety” colour, which is usually green/yellow (the natural colour of PLM pigments). They should also have the appropriate luminance and contrast with the surrounding environment.
• Destination: Markings should clearly indicate intermediary and final destinations along the escape route.
• Avoidance of confusion at decision points: PLM markings and signs should be placed so that the designated route is clear and there is no ambiguity that could lead to uncertainty or confusion during evacuation.
• Dead ends: Markings and signs should direct evacuees away from dead ends toward designated places of safety.
• Multi-storey buildings: Every storey should have a floor plan made with PLM to help with directions and orientation.
• Firefighting and emergency equipment: All firefighting and emergency equipment should be marked with appropriate PLM signs. These signs and markings provide additional visual orientation cues to occupants and information to firefighters. The guide also provides details on performance, installation, and maintenance requirements. It is available for downloading (at no cost) at
http://nparc.cisti-icist.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/npsi/ctrl?action=shwart&index=an&req=5758169&lang=en For further information, contact Noureddine Benichou at (613) 993-7229, or noureddine.benichou@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
The research leading to the publication of this guide was jointly funded by the National Research Council Canada and Public Works and Government Services Canada.
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Dr. Noureddine Benichou is a senior research officer in the Fire Research program of the NRC Institute for Research in Construction. John Burrows is an Ottawa-based consultant and technical writer.
