The Energy Crisis – The case for a wider use of Photoluminescent Safety Wayguidance Systems.
Adrian Iley, Managing Director, G.B.C. (Speciality Chemicals) Limited., Director & Secretary, Photoluminescent Safety Products Association (P.S.P.A.)
The energy crisis means that there is a strong possibility of power shortages and blackouts in the next year at least. It therefore makes sense for everyone to think about how they can manage without power. Of course, you can invest in battery back-up systems but unless you are in the fortunate position to have your own solar or wind farm most people just have to manage somehow.
In
public buildings or multiple occupancy buildings there should be adequate
escape route marking in all public areas as is specified by National and local
regulations. Usually, these systems involve emergency electrical lighting with
battery back-up systems. However, we have seen in numerous examples including the
Twin Towers (9/11), and more recently Grenfell Tower, that such systems, even if
installed correctly, do not necessarily function properly in an emergency. What
is always true is that electrical systems require power and if the power source
is interrupted or if not properly maintained, it does not function. Stairwell
with Photoluminescent system in natural
light Stairwell with Photoluminescent system in natural light in the dark
Photoluminescent (PL) systems are based on special pigments which absorb UV light, store it and re-emit the energy in the form of visible light over a period of several hours. Critically, these systems – provided they are first charged with UV light, cannot fail. There are many examples of cases where their existence has meant that people have managed to safely evacuate public buildings and transport only because such systems were installed – often supplementary to electrical systems, just because in an emergency they work! The most famous example of course was 9/11 when several people only managed to evacuate down the stairwells because of the photoluminescent paint markings which guided them to safety (all electrical systems had ceased to operate).
If you travel on a ferry, cruise ship, plane, train or transit many road tunnels you will find photoluminescent escape route systems installed. The unfortunate fact is that in most cases these systems were only installed subsequently as a result of a disaster. You may remember the ‘Herald of Free Enterprise’ ferry accident, the Piper Alpha Oil platform explosion, the Scandinavian Star cruise ship disaster, Swiss Tunnel fires, World Trade Centre New York bombing, 9/11 etc. etc. There is a long list of such accidents which have led to Photoluminescent systems being introduced into safety regulations and successfully installed.
In 1945 when the Americans dropped the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki the whole area was devastated. However, people had to be able to move around despite the chaos that ensued. The founder of Nemoto & Co. Japan, Kenzo Nemoto first started business making photoluminescent paints to help people find their way in the wake of the devastation. Today as the worlds’ leading manufacturer of PL pigments, the main applications remain for emergency evacuation. You might consider that in other war zones – one thinks today of Ukraine, there could be a case for similar applications now unfortunately.
Away from war zones, but as a direct result, on a practical level (if energy is likely to become rationed in future due to escalating costs), it surely must make sense for us to consider simple applications in the home for Photoluminescent material in case of blackouts, not just for emergency evacuation? Applications could include:
When you experience a serious blackout first hand it makes you realise how difficult it is to navigate in the dark, especially if there is also smoke present as a result of a fire incident or powder atmosphere as a result of the collapse of a building (earthquake, bombing etc.).
In 2003 there was an interesting study made by Ilmenau University in Germany where Photoluminescent systems were compared with electrical evacuation systems in smoky conditions (typical of an emergency situation). The study concluded that continuous lines of low ambient light fitted at a low level (approx. 1m above floor level – typical of a Photoluminescent system), were found to be much more effective as an escape route marking system than high mounted, high brightness electrical sources. The reason being that bright lights are scattered by smoke and can cause disorientation while Photoluminescent systems below the smoke offered a continuous escape pathway.
From an environmental perspective the
common LED lights and Photoluminescent systems both require special pigments
and a lot of energy to produce. The big difference is that if you use a high
quality Photoluminescent system, there is no end of life. As long as there
is a source of UV light, Photoluminescent systems will work when there is a
sudden blackout and we should be more prepared for that in the future.
NOTES:
LumiNova® pigments were invented by Nemoto & Co, Japan in 1993. These pigments are not radioactive and are activated by UV light sources. The energy is stored and re-emitted over many hours as a visible yellow/green light – so most discernible to the human eye and appropriate for safety.
Photoluminescent systems containing LumiNova® are already widely installed in ships, cars, aircraft, tunnels and public buildings where in some cases they have totally replaced electrical systems.
G.B.C. (Speciality Chemicals) Limited is the European marketing company for Nemoto & Co., Japan and Nemoto is a shareholder in the company.
Photographs courtesy of Nemoto & Co, Japan.
References:
https://www.tu-ilmenau.de/fileadmin/Bereiche/MB/lichttechnik/Literatur/2003/BieskeInterLumen2003.pdf
AGI/06.01.2023©
After 7 long years, Everlux is back to being one of the exhibitors at Interschutz 2022, that is going to be held at the Messegelände, in Hannover, from June 20th to 25th.
We
stay by this year´s theme: "Teams, Tactics, Technology – Connected for
Protection and Rescue”, keeping up with the innovative digital solutions
as well as contributing to improve the industry.
Everlux is excited to be able to reconnect with all of its peers and to meet new ones, whom will have the opportunity to visit our brand-new stand, learn more about our latest news and our broad range of photoluminescent safety signs & systems that are going to be showcased:
Safety Way Guidance Systems
DIN 4066 und Önorm F2030 – Hinweisschilder für die Feuerwehr
Excellence by Everlux – Safety Signs for Luxury Interiors
An opportunity to experience our famous "tunnel” where you will find your way out only guided by our Low Location Lighting Signage (LLL)! An experience that is not easily forgotten!
On 21st, 22nd and 23rd of June, Everlux has a surprise for the visitors that will come by our stand. What we can tell you is that our stand will be an art gallery with a real artist performing. Come check for yourself and don´t miss the opportunity to go home with a present.
Our team can’t wait for Interschutz 2022 and to meet all of our customers, friends and new acquaintances to our stand!
Come visit us at Hall 12 – stand B04!
Everlux starts the year by exhibiting at one of the largest events in the Middle East – Intersec 2022, that takes place from January 16th to 18th, at the Dubai World Trade Center.
Once again, we will be showing to our peers what we have been working on and our extensive range of products, including:
• UL Listed Exit Signs and Egress Path Marking Solutions
• Signs in Compliance with the UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice
• Everlux Safety Way Guidance Systems (SWGS)
• Excellence by Everlux
• Everlux-AL – Photoluminescent Safety Signs for Tunnels
• Everlux-LLL – Low Location Lighting
Hence, at the Everlux stand visitors will have the opportunity to develop a comprehensive
understanding of all our solutions and you can also walk through our iconic luminance demonstration tunnel and have a safe evacuation experience!
Everlux
is highly conscious on the current sanitary situation and therefore the
Everlux stand and visitor flow was carefully planned according to the
highest safety standards in place.
We are looking forward to meet all of the visitors of Intersec 2022 at Hall 4 – stand H12, to meet all in person, and therefore, to contribute to the development of the fire safety industry.
Come meet us at the FM Expo – Facilities Management Solutions, in Dubai World Trade Center, from the 12thto the 15th of September.
Our extensive range of photoluminescent safety signage solutions will be on display at Hall 1, stand 1B41, where the Everlux team will be ready to welcome you and to introduce you to our innovative products and services.
The highlights of our stand at the FM Expo are:
With this longed-for return to live-in person events, Everlux aims to resume its in-field contribution to the development of the fire protection sector in the Middle East, and in the U.A.E. in particular.
Because we want to meet you face to face, here is a link through which you can get your visitor badge: register here!
We look forward to meeting you at FM Expo Dubai!
From 7th to 9th of September, Everlux will be exhibiting at the Fire Safety Event at the NEC Birmingham where we will be showcasing our extensive range of photoluminescent safety signs and systems.
Over the past 18 months most companies had to reinvent themselves to remain close to their clients and the fire industry community in general.Everlux created a virtual exhibition which was a new, different and challenging concept and proved to be extremely popular.
However, despite the undoubted success of our virtual Exhibition, Everlux are chomping on the bit to demonstrate our stand in person!!!
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Everlux strives every day to contribute to a better fire safety culture and hopes that this event will help to bring more awareness to this sector and we look forward to seeing you at the NEC, Birmingham in September.
Visit us at the Fire Safety Event, UK´s fastest growing event for Fire Safety!
Here is a link through which you can get your free 3-day visitor badge to meet us face to face.
 | Safety Way Guidance System in accordance with ISO 16069:2017 |
 | Everlux Low Location Lighting (LLL) Systems |
 | Everlux safety signage for tunnels |
Everlux
has developed a range of safety signage that aims to manage behaviour in the
prevention and reduction of exposure to Covid-19 risk, namely:
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The agenda for the day is as follows:
09:30 Doors open
11:00 Fike Single loop Panel Intro/demo
12:00 - 12:45 Lunch
13:00 - 13:45 Tom Brookes (Fire Alarm Technician Competency post Grenfell)
14:00 - 14:45 Suppression, 3M Novec talk
16:00 Closing message and Prize Draw by Mark Kendall
16:30 Close
The event is free to attend, however if you do wish to come along and to also be included in the free prize draw please confirm your intention to attend on the day by sending an e-mail to mkt@everlux.eu, or by registering directly at www.fike.co.uk/product-day-silverstone-circuit/
As you are aware, Intersec has become one of the first mandatory stops of the year for all professionals working within the Security, Safety & Fire Protection markets. So, we obviously couldn’t miss it… and, trust us, you don’t want to miss it either!
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 | Everlux SGWS - Safety way guidance system |
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 | Excellence by Everlux – Safety signs for luxurious environments |
Everlux Safety Way Guidance System (SWGS) as per BS ISO 16069 Everlux LLL – Photoluminescent low level signage
Everlux AL – Aluminium Photoluminescent Safety Signs for Tunnels
Excellence by Everlux – Photoluminescent Safety Signs for luxury and prestigious environments
Everlux for Public Transportation
| Everlux SWGS – Safety Way Guidance System |
| UL Listed EXIT Signs and Egress Path Markings |
| Everlux AL - Signs for Tunnels |
| Excellence by Everlux – Safety signs for luxurious environments |
| And our iconic simulation tunnel secured with the Everlux LLL system |
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Everlux photoluminescent safety signs for high, intermediate and low location levels | Everlux Escape and Alarm Zone Plans | Excellence by Everlux range -photoluminescent safety signs for luxurious environments |
Take note on your calendar: Your opportunity to discover the latest in Security, Safety and Fire Protection, all in one platform, will take place in Dubai, from January 21st to the 23rd!
We are obviously talking about Intersec, a show for all trade professionals from these industries, looking for products to enhance their business.
Here at Everlux we are very excited about returning to this show once again and meet our business partners, for presenting them what we have been working on for the past few months.
Please accept our invitation and join us at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. At the Everlux stand you’ll be able to find our extensive range of photoluminescent safety signs and systems, including:
- Photoluminescent EXIT Signs (UL Listed)
- Safety Way Guidance System (SWGS)
- Photoluminescent Safety Signs for Tunnels (Everlux AL)
- Escape and Alarm Zone Plans
- Excellence by Everlux product range, with new base materials and accessories
- Four-Sided Assembly Point Sign
- Safety signs for the maritime market and…
- … the Everlux Iconic Dark Tunnel!
Register now free of charge and be sure to visit the Everlux team on Stand 4-H12.
We sincerely hope to see you there!
Of course the jury is out pending such enquiries but it is already clear that the quality of cladding materials used was only one part of the story – there were clearly many other areas where the safety of the residents was compromised. In particular, the lack of any kind of effective escape route marking system which could aid escape in such dangerous circumstances; e.g. stairways in thick smoke conditions. The report in the Sunday Times (25 June) stated "The Grenfell stairwell should have provided a safe passage away from danger; instead, as toxic draughts swirled through the building, it turned into a vertical tunnel of smoke. Heavily laden fireman trying to reach higher floors and residents desperate to flee downstairs were left groping around in a poisonous darkness and harrowing scenes of desperation and panic....the smoke grew thicker with each floor we went up….around the ninth floor we lost all visibility and the heat was rising....”It was horrendous,” one firefighter said. "You could not see your hand in front of your face.”
The Photoluminescent Safety Products Association is a Trade Association representing the voice of companies worldwide who promote the use of Photoluminescent materials (incorporated into paint, plastic and printed products). These absorb UV energy, then store and re-emit it in the form of visible light for many safety applications. The great benefit of Photoluminescent (PL) systems is that in the event of a total power failure they provide sufficient light to give directional indications on an escape route.
It’s not news to any of us that the fire industry is constantly evolving. Here at Everlux we have always strived to present our customers with new and innovative solutions that offer practical signage solutions to meet all potential requirements whilst ensuring that they comply with all relevant legislation and Standards.
That’s why, for the past few months we have been listening to you, our customers, telling us what new signage solutions and products you require and the market needs! The net result of which, we are proud to say, has resulted in a new edition of the Everlux catalogue!
The new Everlux catalogue and product range has
been greatly enhanced with many new products including:
And since there’s nothing better than to see these things with your own eyes check we invite you to access our the new Everlux catalogue here.
As always, the Everlux customer support team will be happy to answer any queries you may have and we would encourage you to contact us should you have any questions or you would like to ensure early delivery of your personal copy of the new catalogue!
The Everlux team will be present at the FIM Expo Leeds on Wednesday 27h April 2016, at the Leeds United Football Club, Leeds (UK). We will be displaying our extensive range of photoluminescent (phosphorescent) safety signs and systems, including:
•Safety Way Guidance System (SWGS);
•High luminance evacuation route and firefighting equipment signs;
•Low Location Lighting (LLL);
•Emergency Escape & Alarm Zone Plans;
•Excellence by Everlux safety signs.
Besides the exhibition area, FIM Expo Leeds will also include a complimentary seminar covering a key topic affecting the fire detection and alarm sector.
Register now and be sure to visit the Everlux stand where you can learn all about the Everlux product range and services.You can pre-register for FIM Expo Leeds here, or on the day when you arrive at the Leeds United Football Club.
As you are certainly aware, Intersec is the world’s leading trade fair for Security, Safety and Fire Protection. Therefore, we are proud to announce that Everlux will be once again exhibiting at this show.
At Intersec 2016, Everlux will display its photoluminescent safety signage systems focusing on three product ranges:
- Everlux - complete photoluminescent Safety Way Guidance Systems (SWGS), including high luminance evacuation route and firefighting equipment signs, emergency escape plans, and Low Location Lighting systems;
- Excellence by Everlux - the seamless fusion of safety signs into luxurious and design environments;
- Everlux Martime – complete maritime safety signage solutions; and
- Everlux Safety Signs for Public Transport – a recently launched product range for the public transportation sector.
Intersec 2016 takes place from 17th to 19th January, at Dubai. We will be exhibiting our products at Hall 4, Stand G09, where you can learn about all of the Everlux news and take the opportunity to experience our iconic simulation dark tunnel.
Register now and be sure to visit the Everlux team.
We are looking forward to meet you there!
The Everlux team will be present at the FIM Expo Newmarket on Wednesday 14th October 2015, at the Rowley Mile Racecourse, Newmarket (UK). We will be displaying our extensive range of photoluminescent (phosphorescent) safety signs and systems, including:
• Safety Way Guidance System (SWGS);
• High luminance evacuation route and firefighting equipment signs;
• Low Location Lighting (LLL);
• Emergency Escape & Alarm Zone Plans;
• Excellence by Everlux safety signs.
Besides the exhibition area, FIM Expo Newmarket will also include a complimentary seminar covering a key topic affecting the fire detection and alarm sector.
Register now and be sure to visit the Everlux stand where you can learn all about the Everlux product range and services.You can pre-register for FIM Expo Newmarket here, or on the day when you arrive at the Rowley Mile Racecourse.
Everlux will be present at the Facilities Management Ireland (FM Ireland 2015), on the 4th and 5th of March, at the RDS - The Royal Dublin Society (Dublin, Ireland).
This is the first time that Everlux will be present at this Conference and Exhibition which has been launched in direct response to the growth in the Irish market.
At FM Ireland 2015, Everlux is displaying its Photoluminescent (phosphorescent) Safety Signage Systems, including:
· Safety Way Guidance System (SWGS);
· High luminance evacuation route and firefighting equipment signs;
· Low Location Lighting (LLL);
· Emergency escape & alarm zone plans;
· Excellence by Everlux safety sign system.
Register now (www.fmireland.com/registration/) and be sure to visit Everlux team on stand 317, where you can learn about the Everlux range and take the opportunity to see our iconic dark room and see our safety signs and products in action!
We are looking forward to meet you there!
Everlux is proud to be exhibiting once again at Intersec, a leading international meeting platform for the Security & Safety industry.
Throughout
the years, Everlux has shown a continued commitment to the fire protection
industry in the Middle East and will keep on striving to raise the awareness
for the benefits of photoluminescent safety way guidance systems in
the region.
At Intersec 2015, Everlux is displaying
its photoluminescent safety signage systems focusing on three product ranges:
- Everlux - complete photoluminescent Safety Way Guidance Systems (SWGS), including high luminance evacuation route and firefighting equipment signs, emergency escape plans, and Low Location Lighting systems;
- Excellence by Everlux - the seamless fusion of safety signs into luxurious and designed environments;
- Everlux Martime – complete maritime safety signage solutions.
Where you can learn about all of the Everlux news and take the opportunity to experience our iconic simulation dark room.
We are looking forward to meet you there!
Everlux is proud to present a new style of Type 2 sign that is innovative in its design and features:
• A single, formed PVC sign
with photoluminescent (phosphorescent) properties on both sides!;
• Fixing area features on only one side of the signs making the sign more
discreet;
• Much lighter construction and without a fixing bracket, the new style of Type
2 sign allows for easy installation in almost all situations. The lightweight,
bracketless style will remove the need in most cases for drilling and offers a
less aggressive and quicker method of installing this style of sign.
The new Type 2 sign is exclusively available for Fire Extinguisher, Fire Hose Reel and Manual Alarm Call Point location signs. The size of the new Type 2 sign will be 170x170 mm which provides a viewing distance of 9 meters.
For more information, please contact us!
Communication is essential and in order to strengthen it, we present our NEW WEBSITE!
The new site intends to be a very useful and versatile tool for continuous support to all of those involved in the security sector, including Photoluminescent (Phosphorescent) Safety Signs Systems.
We highlight the main features:
• Product, installation and emergency situations Videos;
• Technical Sheets of the several Everlux products;
• General search at the entire site (including technical articles);
• Optimized viewing mobile version;
• Download of Support Software;
• Compilation of contents available for download;
Not being a closed project we will continue to improve this new platform, developing new features and contents.
Happy navigation!
A new method of fixing our signs!
You can ask all Type1 signs with a magnetic finish that will allow a firm adhesion to all suitable metallic surfaces.
This new finish consists of a magnetic rubber composed of ferrite powder which is applied to the back surface of the sign, allowing Everlux signs, irrespective of size, to be attached to any suitablemetal surface.
These signs will offer an alternative solution when installing in a variety of applications such as storage and industrial areas, temporary signage and to a range of metallic surfaces such as doors and fire equipment and are also suitable to be installed indoors or outdoors.
In order to achieve a perfect magnetic contact that guarantees 100% adherence, the total surface area of the sign should be in contact with the receiving surface. However, if the intended surface has a curvature, i.e. tubes, cylinders, fire hose reels, etc., it is recommended that a test is conducted to ensure suitability and adherence.
See how it works here.
The Everlux app is the best way to make your work easier when conducting a site survey or whenever you require photoluminescent (phosphorescent) safety signs.
With the Everlux app, the full range of photoluminescent (phosphorescent) safety signs is now accessible on your mobile or Tablet. The Everlux app also offers additional features such as technical information.
The Everlux app will assist an engineer or risk assessor whilst conducting a site survey and will prove to be an essential tool. Whether it is a full site survey utilizing building plans or a less comprehensive "walk-round” survey, the app will allow the user to insert signs in the appropriate place, choose the appropriate size and make a complete survey whilst listing all the functions needed.
Ideally, the Everlux app will prove to be an essential tool for all professionals who undertake risk assessments, safety signage & fire safety surveys, projects, maintenance and fire equipment installation or have direct responsibility for premises safety.
The app is available for iOS (4.3 or higher, for iPhone, iPod touch and compatible with iPad) and Android (version 4.0.0 or higher).
For full details and download please click here.
Everlux Project allows the user to easily insert the appropriate safety signs and systems directly into the drawings whilst also providing guidance to ensure that the correct choice of signs is made. Upon completion, Everlux Project then provides a comprehensive breakdown of the project details and specification signs by way of a simple click of the mouse!
Everlux Project is a software package that has been exceptionally well received by the architects, designers and specifiers who have worked with it. If you are not already aware of Everlux Project, a demonstration video highlighting some of the features of this superb tool can be viewed here.
It is available in two separate versions so as to carry signage projects, not only in AutoCAD, but also in drawings in image format (jpeg, bmp, png) or dxf.
You can download both versions - v.2.5 (Autocad add-on) and v.2.5i (stand-alone version) - by clicking here.
Safety 
Photoluminescent Safety Signs