Emergency Exit Signs: Going Green

Long associated with red “Sortie” or “Exit” signs, exit signage has been represented by a green pictogram since the latest version of the Quebec Construction Code – Chapter 1, Building, was introduced in 2015.

Background

In North America, everything related to fire has long been associated with the colour red. However, in European Union countries and many others, red is associated with “prohibited” or “stop.” In other words, in those countries the colour rule is the same as the one used for road traffic. So, in a hypothetical fire situation, a red exit sign could suggest that the exit is blocked or defective, and therefore inaccessible.

This switch to “green” aims to standardize the format in line with the existing symbols of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

Requirements

Every exit must have a clearly visible sign placed above or beside the door. The new pictogram shows a running figure on a green background with an arrow pointing toward the exit. In addition to aligning with universal signage recognized in many countries, this new signage does not depend on language, unlike the old signs.

On top of this, photoluminescent technology is now permitted in the design parameters for signs. The sign remains visible and legible in the dark without requiring a power source. This makes signs easier to install and ensures they remain visible if the building’s emergency power fails.  Signs, whether photoluminescent or powered by an energy source, must provide at least an equivalent level of performance, in compliance with the established standards specified in the Building Code.

Existing residential buildings

Replacing signs is not systematically required for existing buildings used as standard residences. It will be done gradually as the current signs become defective or need to be replaced.

The replacement can also be done when the fire detection and alarm system is upgraded. For example, buildings constructed or altered before November 7, 2000, must comply with the requirements of the 1995 version of the Quebec Construction Code – Chapter 1, Building, under the Quebec Safety Code currently in force.

References

Quebec Construction Code, articles 3.4.5.1 and 9.9.11.3

Standard CAN/CSA-22.2 No. 141 “Emergency lighting equipment” and CAN/ULC-S572 “Photoluminescent and Self-Luminous Exit Signs and Path Marking Systems”