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Q. With low-location exit signs, what is the maximum distance from the floor to the top of the sign?

A. According to NFPA, it may be no higher than 18” from the floor.

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Welcome

The Photoluminescent Safety Association (PSA) is a trade association dedicated to generating broad-based acceptance of safety-grade photoluminescent products.

Click here to See a List of Codes Mandating the Use of Photoluminescent Products

Why Buy Photoluminescent Products?

Photoluminescent, or glow-in-the-dark, products improve safety through such products as these:

  • exit signs,
  • low-location egress pathway marking systems, and
  • general safety signage.

They use no power, do not use radioactive materials, and last for years. For example, PL safety markings may be easily installed in seconds with just a few screws or some adhesive tape.

Department of Energy Says PL is the MOST Energy Efficient Option

According to the US Department of Energy, photoluminescent (PL) exit signs are the MOST energy efficient exit signs available: “In locations with proper charging sources, PL exit signs can have an unlimited service life.”

PL Products Can Secure Points with LEED Credits

Photoluminescent (PL) Exit Signs are a highly sustainable product that can directly contribute toward securing points in the following Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Credits:

  • EA Credit #1 – Energy and Atmosphere: Optimizing Energy Performance.
  • MR Credit #4 – Materials and Resources: Recycled Content.
  • ID Credit #1.1 – Innovation in Design: Exceptional Performance

Operating Costs

  • 500 LED exit signs 5 watts of power each 22,000 kwh of electricity annually $3000 @ $.14/kwh
  • 500 PL exit signs 0 watts of power each 0 kwh of electricity annually $0 @ $.14/kwh

Compare the Three Most Popular and Best-Selling Exit Signs

Key Factor LED Radioluminescent Photoluminescent
Energy Efficiency Good Better Best
Power Consumption 5 watts 0 0
Service Life 10 years 10-20 years Unlimited
Maintenance Electrical Expiration Date Dust
Disposal Hazard Yes Yes No
Periodic Testing Yes No No
Toxic Yes Yes No
Radioactive No Yes No

Who Should Join the PSA?

If you:

  • manufacture, sell, or market safety-grade photoluminescent products
  • write or participate in the writing of building and safety codes
  • are responsible for getting people out of buildings safely in an emergency
  • are a first-responder or a member of a fire safety association

Then you belong in this association.