Luminous Egress Path Marking Systems: What Code Authorities Should Know
Luminous Egress Path Marking Systems: What Code Authorities Should Know
Luminous Egress Path Marking Systems: What Code Authorities Should Know
Egress path marking systems include floor proximity and other as photoluminescent materials. Photoluminescent materials
egress path marking and lighting systems that provide a visual supplied as paints, pigments or inks must be pre-applied by the
delineation of the path of egress. These systems are also used manufacturer to a substrate such as a sheet or tape to eliminate
to identify significant egress path features such as doors, door performance variabilities due to application techniques.
hardware, door frames, stairs, stair landings, stair banisters, UL 1994 requirements do not address the mounting integrity of
obstacles, egress symbols, information placards and similar path markers intended to be secured by adhesive to a building
elements of the egress path. They are intended to be used in element. The suitability of this form of mounting needs to be
conjunction with exit signs to supplement but not replace determined in the actual installation. The Life Safety Code,
required emergency lighting systems. In combination, these NFPA 101, currently precludes the use of adhesive-backed tapes
lighting and path marking systems allow occupants to more on stair nosings due to potential trip hazards introduced by
effectively use the means of egress system in an emergency. such materials.
in accordance with UL 1994. Section 1024 of the 2009 edition of Example of luminous egress path markings in a multi-story, commercial building
the International Building Code includes similar requirements for
these systems.