Fire Extinguisher Signs

There are many different types and sizes of fire extinguisher signs and fire safety signs. But, despite appearances in pictures, all are not created equal. Rigid plastic fire extinguisher signs come in varying thicknesses and varying quality of ink. What is the point of a sign that fades over time?

The problem with the standard rigid plastic safety sign is that they are only visible when the lights are on or daylight is present. In emergencies such as a fire or power cut, this can cause panic and injuries and would you really want to be sued by an employee or visitor for the sake of a quality exit sign?

Self-adhesive signs will not last long and can easily be removed. They also tend to have an exposed sticky edge that gradually collects dust and looks unsightly after time.

Photoluminescent rigid plastic safety signs and way-finding materials are unbeatable, other than by battery-operated emergency lighting systems.

How Do Photoluminescent Signs Work?

Our photoluminescent material contain special inorganic phosphor compound that is energised very quickly by blue light and ultra violet wavelength energy that is present in nearly all light sources.

This high-energy is then converted into a low energy yellow-green light, the colour most recognised by the human eye and as specified by safety signs standards.

These photoluminescent materials are non-radioactive and non-toxic and provide a strong light source. They are also self-extinguishing, so they carry on working when they are most needed.

Most importantly, when the lights go out, they light up and can clearly mark:

• emergency exits
• fire fighting equipment
• alternative light source stores such as "light-sticks"
• stairs and exit routes
• hazards

Why Pictograms?

The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 apply to all premises where people are employed. Employers must display safety signage whenever there is a risk that has not been discounted by another method.

Fire safety signs are included in this legislation and must be clear to all employees whether English speaking or not. This is why pictogram signs must now be used and text only signs are no longer adequate. You will probably recognise similar pictogram signage when on holiday abroad in your hotel - or, at least, we hope they have them!

Your fire safety signs need to be large enough to be seen and unobstructed so decide on the appropriate size before ordering. If you are attaching signage to a fire exit, consider also adding fire and smoke seals to door to prevent smoke and fire spreading further. Intumescent fire door seals expand with heat, protecting the material underneath as well as keeping the fire under control. 

With the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order now a legal requirement, your risk assessment (you must do one) should assess which signage is required and whether emergency lighting is adequate. If in doubt, get a specialist fire risk assessor to advise you but he should always recommend fire extinguisher signs.