Photoluminescent Stairwell Identification Sign
Improve stairwell identification and emergency egress visibility with a photoluminescent stairwell identification sign designed to clearly communicate important stairway and floor information. This 12" x 18" sign combines a highly visible photoluminescent background with raised tactile lettering and Grade 2 Braille for visual and tactile identification.
Also commonly referred to as a glow-in-the-dark stairwell sign or luminous stairwell sign, this product can be customized with the stair identification, floor level, exit discharge information, roof access information and other wording required for your building or project.
Glow-in-the-Dark Visibility for Emergency Egress
Photoluminescent material absorbs and stores energy from an appropriate ambient light source. When normal lighting is reduced or lost, the material emits a visible glow without requiring batteries or an electrical connection. This makes photoluminescent stairwell signs particularly useful as part of an emergency egress and life-safety signage system. Important stairway, floor and exit information can remain visible during reduced-light conditions when occupants and emergency personnel may need it most.
Custom Stairwell and Floor Identification
Each sign can be customized with information appropriate for its stairwell and floor location. Depending on your building and applicable requirements, a stairwell identification sign may include:
- Stairway or stair enclosure identification
- Large floor-level identification
- Top and bottom stairway terminus information
- Exit discharge floor and direction
- Roof access or no roof access information
- Raised tactile characters and Grade 2 Braille
The large floor number provides quick visual identification, while the additional wording communicates important stairwell and emergency egress information.
Tactile Lettering and Grade 2 Braille
Accessibility is an important consideration when planning stairwell and floor identification signage. This sign incorporates raised tactile characters and Grade 2 Braille, providing tactile identification in addition to highly visible printed information. The combination of visual, tactile and Braille information makes this product an excellent choice for projects requiring accessible stairwell and floor identification signage.
Where Are Photoluminescent Stairwell Signs Used?
Photoluminescent stairwell identification signs are commonly used in multi-story commercial, residential and public buildings where clearly identifying floors, stairways and exit routes is important. Typical applications include office buildings, hotels, hospitals and healthcare facilities, schools, apartment and condominium buildings, government facilities, parking structures and other multi-level buildings.
Stairwell Sign Code Requirements
Building, fire and accessibility requirements for stairwell identification signs can vary based on building type, height, occupancy, location and the codes adopted by the local jurisdiction. Requirements may also differ regarding sign wording, placement, tactile characters, Braille and photoluminescent performance. Before ordering, we recommend confirming your project's stairwell signage requirements with your architect, building official or local Fire Marshal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Photoluminescent Stairwell Signs
What is a photoluminescent stairwell sign?
A photoluminescent stairwell sign uses material that absorbs energy from an appropriate light source and then emits a visible glow when surrounding light is reduced or lost. This can help keep important stairwell and floor identification information visible during low-light conditions.
Do photoluminescent stairwell signs require electricity or batteries?
No. Photoluminescent material does not require batteries or an electrical connection to produce its glow. The material must first receive sufficient illumination from an appropriate light source to charge properly.
What information is included on a stairwell identification sign?
Depending on applicable requirements, stairwell signs may identify the stairway, current floor level, top and bottom terminus, direction and floor of exit discharge, and whether roof access is available. Exact wording should be confirmed for your building before ordering.
Does this stairwell sign include Braille?
Yes. This photoluminescent stairwell identification sign includes raised tactile lettering and Grade 2 Braille for tactile identification.
Can I customize the stair and floor information?
Yes. The stair identification, floor number, exit discharge, roof access and other required information can be customized for your project. When ordering signs for multiple floors, each sign can be produced with the appropriate floor-specific information.
Where are stairwell identification signs installed?
Stairwell identification signs are typically installed at floor landings within interior exit stairways where they can be readily seen. Exact mounting location and height should be determined according to the building, fire and accessibility requirements applicable to your project.
SCS Sign Co. 
