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Have you ever wondered how you would find your way out of a building in case of an emergency, especially if the power goes out or there is smoke in the air? Or how would you navigate a dark or dimly lit venue without tripping or bumping into obstacles? Or how would you communicate important information to your staff or visitors in case of a disaster?

If you have, then you might be interested in learning more about Ecoglo, which specializes in photoluminescent exit signs and egress path markers that can provide a clear and reliable guidance system in any situation.

What is Ecoglo?

Ecoglo International was established in 1997 and has developed advanced photoluminescent technology to create high visibility stair edge nosing and evacuation route products like emergency exit signs and handrail systems that never fail. Ecoglo tactile solutions are designed to comply with international building codes to meet exit sign and emergency lighting requirements, including ULC572S, UL924 signs, NFPA 101 Solutions and International Fire Code Solutions.

How does it work?

Made with a patented manufacturing process known as High-Temperature Curing or HTC, Ecoglo products are extremely durable and have a minimum indoor life expectancy of 30 years. Compare this with mass-produced PVC products, which very quickly degrade with UV exposure. Ecoglo products are sustainable, use no electricity and cost a fraction of the electrical alternative. The photoluminescent pigments in Ecoglo products absorb and store both natural and recycled electrical light before re-emitting the energy as a glow when the lights go out.

The market overview & how it’s changing?

The market for emergency lighting systems has traditionally been dominated by the electrical industry, but the innovative technology behind Ecoglo photoluminescent systems has disrupted this practice and delivers real cost and sustainability advantages to the economy. Ecoglo products are reliable, with no lamp or battery failure and virtually no maintenance costs. All Ecoglo products have met internationally accredited testing and can be seen in many installations around the world, including Dubai's Burj Khalifa, Melbourne Cricket Ground and New York City Transit.

Ecoglo has also been installed in thousands of offices, hospitals, airports, transit and infrastructure facilities, universities, warehouses and stadiums worldwide. Ecoglo offers an ever-evolving range of products, including exit signage, step edging, path and handrail markers, fire protection signs, disaster preparedness signs, and next-generation Hybrid LED/PL Exit Sign Systems.

Ecoglo products for pathfinding: benefits explained!

Ecoglo products are designed to provide the following benefits for your pathfinding needs:

• Step edge contrast: Ecoglo products have a photoluminescent colored anti-slip strip that provides excellent contrast and visibility for the edge of each step in all lighting conditions.

• Visibility in all light conditions: Ecoglo products have a PL strip that glows brightly in the dark for hours, giving your patrons confidence and direction in exiting, even in an emergency.

• Slip-resistance: Ecoglo products have a hard-wearing silicon carbide non-slip material that reduces slips and falls in all weather conditions.

• Resistance to wear: Ecoglo products are made of durable aluminum and polymer that can withstand thousands of people walking on them without losing their luminance or performance.

How Can Ecoglo Enhance Your Safety and Visibility in Any Situation?

Ecoglo’s products are designed to meet or exceed the most stringent building codes and standards around the world, such as NFPA 101 Life Safety Code and International Fire Code (IFC) / International Building Code (IBC). They are also cost-effective, environmentally friendly, easy to install and maintain, and suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

Ecoglo offers a wide range of products for different applications and settings, such as:

Exit signs: Ecoglo’s exit signs are UL 924 certified and comply with many international building codes. They are available in various shapes, sizes, colors, and languages. They can also be customized to suit your specific needs and preferences. Ecoglo’s exit signs do not require electricity or batteries, and they are visible in all light conditions.

Egress path markers: Ecoglo’s egress path markers include step edge contrast strips, non-slip strips, guidance strips, handrail strips, perimeter demarcation lines, obstacle markers, door frame markings, emergency exit symbols, and door hardware markings. They are designed to outline the exit path and highlight important features such as steps, landings, doors, handrails, obstacles, and information placards. They are also slip-resistant and abrasion-resistant.

Emergency signage: Ecoglo’s emergency signage includes evacuation maps, running man signs, fire extinguisher signs, and disaster preparedness signs. They are designed to provide clear and concise information and instructions to occupants in case of an emergency. They are also easy to read and understand in all light conditions.

Stadium and venue products: Ecoglo’s stadium and venue products include aisle and seat markers, handrail markers, step edging products, directional markers, floor identification markers, hybrid signs, and best practice photoluminescent path marking solutions. They are designed to enhance the safety and visibility of patrons and staff in stadia, arenas, theatres, cinemas, concert halls, auditoriums, museums, galleries, and other types of venues. They are also ideal for low-light and dark events.

Ecoglo vs. Traditional Emergency Lighting Backup Systems

The wrap

For stairways requiring outstanding durability, safety, accessibility and service life at a competitive price, look no further than compliant workplace solutions like Ecoglo's non-photoluminescent and photoluminescent cast-in-place and surface applied stair edge nosings and emergency exit signs at Tactile Solutions Canada. Leave a lasting impression by partnering with us to facilitate mobility and independence for all building users. Trust Tactile Solutions Canada as your source for code-compliant tactile solutions.

Tactile Walking Surface Indicators (TWSIs), also referred to as detectable warning surfaces or tactile attention indicators, serve as standardized walking pathways that convey vital information to individuals with visual impairments through the use of distinctive textures and occasionally auditory cues.

These surfaces are typically constructed using inserts made of various materials such as metal, rubber, stone, or plastic, or they can be directly integrated into concrete ground surfaces. TWSIs are designed to offer a discernible texture underfoot, detectable by a long cane. Furthermore, their edges are intentionally angled or bevelled to minimize the risk of tripping.

Two main categories of TWSIs exist:

• Attention TWSIs, also known as warning TWSIs, draw awareness to significant hazards such as the commencement of a staircase or the perimeter of a platform.

• Guidance TWSIs, alternatively called wayfinding TWSIs, provide directional information within open spaces, aiding individuals in navigating along designated paths.

TWSIs should exhibit a noticeable contrast in color compared to the surrounding walking surface. For attention TWSIs, the recommended color is safety yellow (Munsell Colour System: hue 5.0, chroma yellow 8.0/12). Another effective approach involves using a light hue on a dark ground surface or a dark hue on a light ground surface. To clearly distinguish warning information from guidance information, it is advised not to employ safety yellow for guidance TWSIs.

When TWSIs are installed as pre-fabricated panels or affixed onto existing ground or floor surfaces, the panels themselves should feature bevelled edges. The base surface of the TWSI panels should not exceed three millimeters above the existing surface. While surface-mounted installations are less than ideal, they may be considered only when alternatives such as cast-in-place or recessed installations are not feasible.

TWSIs should always be attached firmly to prevent edges from lifting.

Attention Tactile Walking Surface Indicators

Attention Tactile Warning and Safety Indicators (TWSIs) play a crucial role in conveying vital safety information to individuals present in potentially hazardous areas, especially those with visual impairments. Their primary purpose is to serve as markers for identifying potential dangers. It is imperative to maintain uniform safety messaging to ensure that individuals with visual impairments can readily identify precarious situations regardless of their location, be it a town or province.

TWSIs should comprise circular or flat-topped truncated domes or cones that are securely installed on pedestrian surfaces.

Attention TWSIs should have the following specifications:

• Flat-topped truncated domes or cones should be used, arranged in a square grid pattern, parallel or diagonal at 45 degrees to the main direction of travel.
• The height of the flat-topped domes or cones should be four to five millimetres. In interior environments with exceptionally smooth surfaces, such as polished concrete or terrazzo, the minimum height of four millimetres is preferred.
• The diameter of the top of the flat-topped domes or cones should be between 12 and 25 mm.
• The diameter of the lower base of the flat-topped domes or cones should be 10 mm (+/- 1 mm) more than the diameter of the top.

The spacing between adjacent flat-topped domes or cones should be adjusted depending on their size. The larger the individual domes/cones, the more distant the space between them.

Attention TWSIs should be used at the following locations:

• Platform edges
• Ferry dock edges
• Edges of reflecting pools and fountains those are unprotected at ground level
• Tops of stairs, at landings where there is a door leading onto the landing
• At landings longer than 2,100 mm where there are no continuous handrails
• Both sides of ground-level railway crossings
• Curb ramps and depressed curbs
• Unprotected edges with a drop-off greater than 250 mm in height
• Unprotected edges where the slope down is greater than 1:3 (33 per cent)
• Entry points to vehicular routes where no curb or other element separates pedestrians from vehicles
• At the beginning of ground-level moving walkways (e.g., used in airport terminals)

Attention TWSIs used on platforms, ferry docks and other drop-offs should be:

• 600 – 650 mm deep
• Located at the edge of the drop-off
• Running the full length of all unprotected platform/dock edges that border the drop-off

At stairs, attention TWSIs should commence one tread depth back from the leading edge of the nosing at the top step and extend across the width of the stairs. The attention TWSI alerts a person with vision loss that there is a set of stairs ahead and to seek the support of a handrail for safe navigation. The depth of the TWSIs used at the top of stairs should be 600 – 650 mm.

At railway crossings, attention TWSIs should be located so that the edges of TWSIs are 1,800 – 4,600 mm from the centre line of the nearest rail. Attention TWSIs should be installed in addition to any mechanical barriers that are activated with the arrival of trains.

Attention TWSIs should be provided across the entire width of a curb ramp or depressed curb (exclusive of flares). They should be set back 150 – 200 mm from the curb’s edge and extend 600 – 650 mm in the direction of travel.

Guidance Tactile Walking Surface Indicators

Guidance TWSIs should consist of a pattern of parallel, flat-topped, elongated bars that extend in the direction of travel.

Guidance TWSIs are appropriate at the following locations:

• Transit stops
• Train stations
• Subway or light rail transit (LRT) platforms
• Airports
• Sports arenas and stadiums
• Large open spaces (e.g., public squares)
• In the door areas of expansive open areas (e.g., shopping malls)

Follow these specifications for guidance TWSIs:

• Where installed to define a route, their width should be 250 – 300 mm.
• Where installed across a route as an indicator of an amenity or diverging route, their width should be 600 – 650 mm.
• They should have a minimum continuous clearance of 600 mm on both sides.
• The height of the bars should be four to five millimetres.
• The top of the flat-topped elongated bars should have a width between 17 and 30 mm.
• The bars should be colour contrasted to surrounding surfaces to make them easily identifiable by people with low vision.
• The width of the base of the bars should be 10 mm (+/- 1 mm) wider than the top.
• The top length of the bars should be at least 270 mm. If drainage is a concern, a space of 10 – 30 mm should be provided at the ends of the bars.
• The spacing between adjacent flat-topped bars should be adjusted depending on the size of the bars. The larger the individual bars, the more distant the space between them.
• Attention TWSIs should be used along tactile guidance paths to identify turns and other decision-making points. The attention TWSIs should be configured in a square pattern centred on the guidance TWSIs, with each side of the square being 600 mm – 650mm.

An alternate type of guidance TWSI should be used on road surfaces to assist persons with vision loss to navigate complex road crossings including, but not limited to crossing at:

• Roundabouts, also known as traffic circles
• Mid-block crossings with four or more lanes
• Skewed intersections
• Offset crossings

TWSIs used on road surfaces are clearly different and distinguishable from the guidance surfaces used in pedestrian areas. Guidance TWSIs on road surfaces at pedestrian crossings should:

• Be configured as a straight path
• Be 250mm - 300mm wide
• Be detectable underfoot
• Be detectable with a long cane
• Be at least 50% colour/brightness contrasted with adjacent road surfaces
• Not present a tripping hazard
• Not present a barrier for persons who use wheelchairs or other types of mobility devices
• Be configured to mitigate damage from snow-plowing

Ecoglo photoluminescent safety way guidance systems are silent lifeguards in buildings that guide occupants to safety through the ingenious use of path marking signs, exit signage, step edge awareness, and handrail guidance. These markings create an illuminated escape route in low visibility conditions by outlining paths, noting any changes in direction or elevation, and highlighting obstacles.

When the lights go out, these markings come to life to shepherd all toward the exits. These safety way guidance systems comply with strict safety standards to ensure maximum visibility and clarity. The radiant markers lay dormant during regular use but spring into action in case of emergencies, making them the unseen saviors that guide your way in the dark.

Adherence of Ecoglo products to standards and codes

Ecoglo photoluminescent products used in path marking systems are in accordance with the following Standards: UL 1994 Luminous Egress Path Marking Systems and CAN/ULC-S572 Photoluminescent and Self-Luminous Exit Signs and Path Marking Systems. Ecoglo path marking products should be installed as per the directions in this guide.

1: Installation Instructions for Floor Identification Signs

1. Surface Preparation

• Thoroughly clean the surface with industrial strength cleaner if necessary.

• Remove any loose paint or sealant, then allow the surface to dry.

2. Positioning of Signs

• Mark the position on the door or wall where the sign is to be placed.

Note: Floor Identification signs – the mounting height must be in accordance with local and national codes.

3. Placement of Signs

• Peel the protective layer from the back of the sign to expose the adhesive, ensuring nothing comes into contact with it.

• Line the sign up with the markings you made.

• Apply pressure evenly over the sign to fix it fast to the surface.

4. Maintenance of Signs

• Regular dusting with a soft cloth or brush is recommended to keep the sign clean.

• If the sign is noticeably dirty, clean it with a sponge or cloth.

2: Installation Instructions for Step Edge Nosing

1. Preparation of the surface

• Thoroughly clean the surface with industrial strength cleaner if necessary.

• Remove any loose paint or sealant and then allow the surface to dry.

• If painted or coated, check that adhesive is compatible with the paint or seal coating.

2. Alignment of the Strips

• Mark 50mm from the left edge of the top step.

• Mark 50mm from the left edge of the bottom step.

• Place a string line between the marks to ensure the strip on each step will be correctly aligned.

3. Preparation of the Strip

• Clean the back of the contrast strip with a soft cloth, and if necessary, use methylated spirits (or similar solvent) to remove oil or grease

• Allow to dry for approximately 1 minute.\

4. Applying the Adhesive

• Apply a 3mm zigzag bead of polyurethane adhesive (such as Wurth KD Bond and Seal or Bostik Seal n Flex FC) to the back of the strip, 3mm in from the edges.

• Continue along the length of the strip.

Ecoglo can supply Wurth KD Bond and Seal in 600ml Sausage form with Applicator Gun.

1. Placement of the Strip

• Line up the strip with your alignment marks and position approximately 2-3mm back from the front straight edge of the step.

• Place in position with the photoluminescent (light green) component of the strip to the leading edge of the step (see image below).

2. Apply Pressure to the Strip

• Apply even pressure to spread the adhesive beneath the strip using a hand roller.

• If necessary, stand on each strip to ensure good contact between the strip and the step.

3. Allow the Adhesive to Cure

• Immediately following installation, close off the area for a period of 8 hours to avoid the Ecoglo strip being moved whilst the adhesive is in the early stages of “cure.”

• Wait until the adhesive has fully cured (allow at least 24 hours) before trimming any excess from each strip with a sharp blade.

4. Use of Fixers

For outdoor timber installations, both adhesive and fixers should be used because installation onto outdoor timber surfaces varies due to the uneven nature of timber, the various types of timber (e.g. pine or kwila), the protective coating (e.g. paint or sealer) and seasonal temperature variances.

Step 1:

• Apply adhesive as per steps 3-4, taking care to keep adhesive away from pre-drilled holes.

• Place strip as per steps 5-6.

• Leave the adhesive to cure for 7 days before installing the fixers.

Step 2:

• Place a screw fixer into each hole and drill in securely using a battery drill.

• Do not fully tighten the fixers to avoid compressing the adhesive.

For timber installations, the strips should be pre-drilled through the anti-slip material. The table below shows the number of drill holes required to allow for the natural contraction and expansion of timber.

1. Maintenance of Strips

• Regular vacuuming or brushing with a stiff bristle head brush is recommended to keep strips clean.

• If strips are noticeably dirty, clean them with a sponge or cloth.

3: Installation Instructions for Guidance Strips

Ecoglo guidance strips are tremendously versatile and can be applied on various types of surfaces, including walls, skirting boards, floors, door frames, flat-sided handrails, and steps*. Generally, as long as the substrate is clean, flat, and dry, the product can be successfully installed.

1. Preparation of Surface

• Thoroughly clean the surface with an industrial-strength cleaner if necessary.

• Remove any loose paint or sealant, and then allow the surface to dry.

• If the surface has been painted or coated, check that adhesive is compatible with the paint or seal coating. IF IN DOUBT, REMOVE THE COATING.

• The tape is suitable for a temperature range of 0-40C.

• Maximum installation length is 1500mm.

2. Positioning, Alignment of the Strips

• If installing on a flat handrail or other surface, such as a wall, mark the position where the strip is to be placed. Use a chalk line, plumb line, or spirit level if necessary to ensure the line is straight.

• If installing on steps, mark 50mm from the left edge of the top step and 50mm from the left edge of the bottom step. Place a string line between the marks to ensure the strip on each step will be correctly aligned. This will give a straight, true line.

• Offer up the strip to the surface it is to be attached to make sure both surfaces are parallel. If the strip does not sit perfectly flat against the surface without being held in place, carefully bend the strip until it sits perfectly flat against the surface.

3. Placement of Adhesive-backed Strip

• Carefully peel off the release-tape backing from the strip.

• Carefully line the strip up with any alignment marks.

• Press the strip firmly in place to ensure even contact between the adhesive tape and the surface to which it is being applied.

4. Mechanical Fixers (Screws and Rivets)

• For handrails in schools or other places where vandalism may occur, screws (for timber, as described above) or rivets (for metal) MUST be used. Install one screw/rivet 10-15mm in from each end of each strip.

• For outdoor timber installations, screws MUST also be used so that the adhesive tape isn’t able to lift if the timber distorts or absorbs moisture due to normal weather conditions. 5mm pan head screws are suitable to be screwed down firmly but not so tight that the tape squashes under the strip. Install one screw 10-15mm in from each end and one screw in the middle of each strip.

• If in doubt about the adhesion of the strips to any substrate, use screws/rivets for additional security. Install one 10-15mm in from each end and one in the middle of each strip.

5. Maintenance of Strips

• Regular vacuuming or brushing with a stiff bristle head brush is recommended to keep the strips clean.

• If strips are noticeably dirty, clean them with a sponge or cloth.

Cleaning

Regular cleaning to remove built-up dirt and objects on the strips will ensure Ecoglo will continue performing to expectation. Note that the photoluminescence will continue performing even after UV exposure or exposure to moisture. The only reason for the degradation in the performance of the photoluminescence is a lack of correct cleaning.

1. Vacuuming or brushing with a stiff bristle head (wet or dry) is often enough to keep the strips clean. The glowing strip can also be wiped clean with a wet or dry sponge or cloth. Observation will determine if cleaning is required; however, a regular cleaning every 4 to 6 weeks or after particularly heavy use should ensure correct performance.

2. High-pressure water (but not steam cleaning) can also be used to clean the strips.

3. Do not use highly alkaline or acidic cleaning agents. The pH of the cleaning agents should be between pH 5 and pH 12. If cleaning agents are applied at more than pH 10, the strips should be rinsed with pH neutral (pH 6 to pH 8) solution afterward.

Ensure the Safety of Your Building Occupants with Ecoglo & Tactile Solutions Canada

Providing a safe environment for people in your building is not just a requirement; it is your responsibility. Ecoglo's breakthrough photoluminescent "Safety Way Guidance Systems" are the smart, stylish, and sustainable solution to meet safety compliance needs.

These innovative systems expertly guide people to safety in emergencies and power outages. The Path marking signs, exit signage, step edge awareness, and/or handrail guidance glow in the dark for hours, clearly marking exit routes and stairs even when the lights are out.

Don't risk non-compliance fees or harm to your occupants. Tactile Solutions Canada with Ecoglo delivers an affordable life safety and guidance solution. We make it easy to do the right thing - contact us today to experience the difference in your building. When emergencies strike, Ecoglo glows. Your path to safety starts here.

Before we continue ahead to discuss the accessibility standards, it is important to understand the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005. So, let’s get started!

AODA, or Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, establishes the process for developing and applying accessibility standards. The standards are developed in collaboration with people with disabilities and industry groups, as well as the government.

The government is responsible for developing accessibility criteria that organizations must meet under the AODA. Implementing and enforcing these standards will enable us to collaborate in making Ontario more accessible and inclusive by 2025.

Accessibility Standards under AODA

Accessibility standards are rules that must be followed by the government, corporations, non-profits, and public sector organizations in order to become more accessible for the common public, especially for the visually impaired.

They assist organizations in identifying and removing barriers in five areas of daily life to increase accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Such standards act as the foundation stone for ensuring the accessibility of all in the public spaces.

Design of Public Spaces Standard

The AODA’s design of public spaces standard specifies that newly created or redeveloped public places must be accessible to people with disabilities. The Design of Public Places Standard outlines methods for making common places more accessible. For example, there are accessibility requirements for:

• Recreational trails and beach access routes

• Public eating areas like rest stops or picnic areas

• Outdoor play spaces, like playgrounds in provincial parks and local communities

• Accessible parking (on and off the street)

• Office building lobbies

• Indoor stairs and ramps

• Cafeteria and lounge space

• Indoor public spaces of apartment buildings

• Outdoor paths of travel, like sidewalks, ramps, stairs, curb ramps, rest areas and accessible pedestrian signals

• Indoor play spaces and corridors

Ontario Building Code includes the accessibility rules for the indoor space, whereas the Design of Public Spaces Standard constitutes the guidelines for service-oriented elements like service counters, fixed queuing lines, and waiting areas with fixed seating.

The Design of Public Spaces Standard is applicable to -

• New spaces and buildings

• Existing spaces undergoing renovations

• Public sector organizations

• Private organizations with fifty or more workers

Private organizations with fewer than fifty employees are simply obligated to follow rules for accessible facilities -

• Recreational trails and beach access routes

• Accessible parking

• Service-related elements like service counters, fixed queuing lines, and waiting areas

• Maintenance and restoration of public spaces

Accessibility in Ontario’s Building Code

The Ontario Building Code sets the accessibility criteria for most new construction and major building renovations. These contain the following requirements:

• Barrier-free access paths of travel

• Fire safety devices

• Public washrooms

• Access to pools and saunas

• Seating in public spaces

The criteria apply to the majority of new construction and large renovations in Ontario, and they function in tandem with the Design of Public Spaces standard. Existing structures are unaffected unless major renovations are planned. Smoke alarm regulations apply to dwellings, including semi-detached houses, townhouses, and duplexes, but not to the majority of other accessibility standards.

Photoluminescent exit signs are popular for contractors, business owners, and building managers looking for an eco-friendly, code-compliant, and cost-effective way to mark emergency exits. Unlike traditional electric exit signs that require wiring and ongoing energy usage, photoluminescent signs absorb and store ambient light, emitting a glow in low or no light conditions to illuminate exit routes.

As per the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Tactile Act in Canada, and Section 1024 of the International Building and Fire Codes, properly marked emergency exits are legally required in all public buildings to ensure the safety of all occupants. For business owners, photoluminescent exit signs offer an affordable solution that aligns with environmentally-conscious values. They contain non-toxic, rechargeable photoluminescent panels that charge themselves using existing light fixtures, eliminating the need for hardwiring or electricity.

The Actual Science Behind Photoluminescent Exit Signs

Photoluminescent exit signs work by absorbing and storing ambient light energy, which is emitted as a bright glow in low or no light conditions. They contain special non-toxic photoluminescent materials, typically zinc sulfide or strontium aluminate, that get charged through exposure to natural or artificial light sources.

Once charged, these materials emit the stored energy as a bright glow for extended dark periods. The illumination duration depends on the charging period, with longer exposure to light resulting in a glow lasting up to 7 hours on a single charge. The light emitted is a bright green that meets or exceeds requirements for emergency exit visibility, ensuring the signs can be seen even at a distance in smoky, chaotic conditions.

Benefits of Installing Photoluminescent Exit Signs and Why They're Effective?

Energy-Efficient

One of the biggest benefits of photoluminescent exit signs is their energy efficiency. By tapping into ambient light, they consume no electricity, saving business owners money on energy costs and reducing environmental impact. The signs only require surrounding ambient room lighting to charge, using energy that would otherwise be wasted, and they remain effective for up to 15 years without needing replacement.

Highly Durable

Photoluminescent exit signs are also highly durable, withstanding various environmental conditions. The photoluminescent material is non-toxic, moisture-resistant, and non-flammable. It will continue operating in very hot or wet environments, including outdoor areas exposed to the weather. The signs glow in complete darkness for up to eight hours after a charge, marking exits around the clock.

Reduces the Risk of Failure

An additional benefit is that photoluminescent exit signs eliminate the risk of failure during power outages. As they require no hardwiring or electricity, the signs remain fully illuminated even when the main power is disrupted. This ensures all occupants can easily spot exit routes to evacuate the building in an emergency.

Code-Compliant and Required by International Building Codes

Compliance with fire safety regulations and building codes incentivizes businesses to invest in photoluminescent exit signs. They meet the same strict standards as electric exit signs to properly guide occupants to safety in accordance with laws like the Ontario Fire Code. The bright green glow is also highly visible, capturing attention even at a distance in smoky, chaotic conditions. Did you know that according to Section 1024 of the International Building and Fire codes, all buildings are required to have luminous egress path markings installed? This includes the installation of photoluminescent exit signs, which are a great way to ensure that everyone can safely exit a building in case of an emergency.

To meet code compliance, all exit signs must be UL 924 certified, and this means that they have been rigorously tested and are guaranteed to perform when you need them most. So, whether you're a building owner, manager, or just a concerned citizen, it's important to make sure that your building is equipped with the right emergency lighting to keep everyone safe.

Photoluminescent Vs. Traditional Exit Signs

Whether battery-powered or hardwired, traditional exit signs provide illumination using a power source that requires ongoing maintenance and costs. The signs rely entirely on their power supply, consuming energy 24 hours daily to stay lit. Batteries must be regularly replaced, often within just 1-2 years, and hardwiring requires professional installation with associated labor fees. Energy usage continues even when exits are not in use, increasing utility costs over the signs' lifetime.

In contrast, photoluminescent exit signs are self-sustaining, absorbing, and re-emitting ambient light to provide bright illumination without any internal power source. They use special non-toxic, rechargeable materials that tap into existing overhead lighting and natural light from windows or skylights to charge. Once charged, they emit a glow for up to 7 hours, even in complete darkness. They require no wiring, batteries, or ongoing maintenance, saving time, money, and the environment.

Photoluminescent exit signs are also highly durable, withstanding heat, humidity, and other extreme conditions for up to 15 years without deterioration. Their non-toxic materials pose no health hazards and continue operating in wet or corrosive environments. Traditional signs, in comparison, often fail prematurely due to battery drain or electrical faults, requiring frequent replacement of components.

During an emergency like a fire or power outage, the reliability and performance of exit signs are critical. Photoluminescent signs provide continuous visibility even when main power is disrupted since they require no external power source. On the other hand, traditional signs may cease working in the event of a power failure, blackout, or distribution issue, putting occupants at risk in an already dangerous situation.

The Wrap

The choice is clear for business owners & contractors prioritizing reduced costs, improved sustainability, and enhanced emergency preparedness. Photoluminescent exit signs are a visibly better solution.

Though we believe that our audience is well-aware and knowledgeable, it is important to understand what being photoluminescent means to ensure that exact information is delivered. Any photoluminescent object emits light after absorbing photons (carries energy), and such an object does not require additional energy like electricity to light up.

The one differentiating factor distinguishing photoluminescent tactile solutions from others is the ability to ‘glow in the dark.’ During an emergency or unavailability of electricity, photoluminescent tactile solutions provide the safest pathway and reduce the risk of slips and trips.

In this article, we will discover how photoluminescent surface-applied anti-slip contrast strips help reduce slipping or tripping accidents.

What are Photoluminescent Contrast Strips for Stairs?

Photoluminescent Contrast Strips improve egress speed and visibility in all lighting conditions. In all conditions, Photoluminescent Tactile Strips for Stairs provide life-saving egress lighting. These strips ensure your building fulfils the code compliance without bothering the design.

The strips are charged by natural and artificial light & glow for hours after a power failure. The best is that these Photoluminescent Contrast Strips are easy to apply and install; all you need is a premium polyurethane adhesive.

Note - The photoluminescent contrast strips can be installed with mechanical fasteners, but do not use them while installing outdoors.

Engineered for Durability

When it comes to durability, Ecoglo’s Photoluminescent Tactile Warning Strip for stairs has no match—manufactured using Ecoglo’s patented process, which produces the most robust and highly efficient photoluminescent product available. The photoluminescent strips’ distinct ridges prevent them from most abrasive damage and provide slide resistance while making the product easy to clean.

The hard-wearing silicon carbide non-slip material is integrally bonded with the aluminum substrate. Thousands of people can walk on it without incurring wear and tear. The contrast strips' durability and strength ensure they can bear heavy loads, eventually reducing the chances of accidents.
 

Reliable Solution for Step-Edge Safety

Annually, there is an average of 12,000 deaths by stairway accidents. The statistics themselves are the statement on why keeping secure surroundings around staircases is essential. Considering the same, Photoluminescent Tactile Indicator Strips for stairs appear as the reliable solution.

The colour contrast of the non-slip material with advanced photoluminescent technology provides step-edge visibility under all light conditions. The unique ridges in the Ecoglo photoluminescent strips and the integrated anti-slip contrast strips ensure all-weather slip resistance. Trust Tactile Solution Canada as your go-to provider for Stair Tactile Warning Strips in Canada. Let’s make our surroundings code-compliant while providing the maximum accessibility.

Consider this fact - In the first 20 days of 2023, over 88 pedestrians were hit. Isn't this alarming? It gets a lot tougher for visually challenged people to avoid any kind of accident.

In order to avoid the risks and minimize fatal accidents, it is important that contractors, city planners, and property owners must do their bit to promote and maintain pedestrian safety.

But the question is, how can one really achieve the maximum safety level? Well, this blog covers the answer to the same question. Let's explore!

Detectable Warning Surface Solutions

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 states that applying detectable warning surfaces in public spaces is compulsory for accessibility solutions provider. But what are these detectable warning surfaces?

If you walk or take public transport to work, you've certainly noticed those raised truncated domes placed on the ground at intersections, rail platforms, and even closer to the bus stops. These tiles equipped with raised circles are known as detectable warning surfaces, and they inform persons who are completely blind or have low vision of this shift so they can be prepared in advance before passing a busy intersection.

How Can Detecting Warning Surfaces Improve Pedestrian Safety?

These curtailed dome tiles are installed to help visually impaired people to navigate and locate public spaces securely and confidently. The story doesn't end here; the detectable warning surfaces provide much more benefits to pedestrians.

Warns about Potential Hazards

Detectable warning surfaces are devised and installed to provide non-visual notice of impending hazards. Cast-in-place tiles are most typically observed at crossings for pedestrians, where they inform visually impaired individuals of the commencement onto a vehicle roadway. In a similar way, detectable warning surfaces erected on transit platforms warn pedestrians of the inclined drop into the tracks.

The detectable warning surfaces are erected at strategic spots in public spaces to draw pedestrians' attention, cautioning them to halt, analyze their environment, and move accordingly. The application of detecting warning surfaces is limited to the exterior use, these are used for internal use at escalator approaches, pedestrian crossings & top of stair landings/wheelchair ramps.

Slip-resistant Surface

Truncated domes give a tactile warning while providing a non-slip grip on the surface of detectable warning surfaces. In all weather conditions, the crucial microtexture on detectable warning surfaces adds another layer of pedestrian safety. The non-slip surface is specifically useful in sloped places like curbs and wheelchair ramps, allowing people to gain friction.

Brings Attention to the Surroundings

Our surroundings typically fade away when we focus on what is in front of our eyeline. However, detectable warning surfaces draw our attention due to the clearly-visible different surfaces felt underfoot. This becomes extremely crucial for visually challenged people as they must be extra cautious of their surroundings.

The visible shift in surface causes pedestrians to pause, analyze, and take in the surroundings before continuing. Such a call to attention is especially useful in stairwells, escalators, pedestrian crossings, and transportation platforms.

Wayfinding

It can be challenging to maneuver largely open spaces, such as concourse halls or hotel lobbies for people of all abilities, but especially for those with vision impairment. ISO Wayfinding bars tiles, which are frequently used in conjunction with truncated dome tiles, provide a tactile track that the visually handicapped may readily discover and follow.

Not only do detectable warning surfaces help the visually handicapped navigate a big open space, but they can also help individuals who do not have visual impairments. In an unfamiliar and difficult-to-navigate situation, the well-defined pathway can assist in guiding pedestrians to the main information desk or destination.

Pedestrian Safety is Crucial

Pedestrian safety is an important factor to consider while designing public or commercial spaces. While the lawful act of ADA requires the space to be completely safe for pedestrians, especially for visually challenged people, it becomes the unsaid responsibility of the contractors to ensure that the building designed under their scope and guidance should be 100% safe and secure.

Over 1.1 billion people in this world are suffering from some kind of visual impairment, ranging from minor issues to total blindness. As per the estimates, there are 500,000 blind or partially sighted Canadians.

With so many people suffering from visual impairments, we as a society have devised strategies to ensure that they have the same chances and societal respect as sighted people. One particularly useful & functional tool is a "tactile warning surface."

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA)

As its name suggests, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) is a recognized law that establishes a developing process and implementing accessibility standards. There are three major stakeholders involved -

• Person with disabilities
• Industry representatives
• Government

All three work in tandem to develop accessibility standards. The government is accountable for developing accessibility criteria that organizations must meet under the AODA. Applying and practicing these standards will enable us to collaborate in making Ontario more accessible and inclusive by 2025. Though AODA is not limited to accessibility in public spaces, it advices the accessibility solutions provider to ensure the code-compliancy in public or commercial spaces. The law is diverse and covers accessibility standards for -

• Customer service
• Information and communications
• Transportation
• Employment

In this blog, we are particularly focusing on understanding the accessibility standards for public spaces. So, let's get it on!

Design of Public Spaces Standard

The AODA's Design of Public Spaces Standard states that newly created or refurbished public places must be accessible to people with visual disabilities. In simpler words, the Design of Public Spaces Standard informs about the solutions to make public spaces more safe and accessible, which includes-

• Recreational trails and beach access routes
• Apartments & residential buildings
• Outdoor public eating areas like rest stops or picnic areas
• Outdoor play spaces, like playgrounds in provincial parks and local communities
• Shopping malls
• Accessible parking (on and off the street)
• Outdoor paths of travel, like sidewalks, ramps, stairs, curb ramps, rest areas and accessible pedestrian signals

Ontario Building Code, which states the regulations for the constructed building in Ontario, covers the accessibility rules for indoor spaces. But in contrast to the Ontario Building Code, the Design of Public Spaces Standard incorporates the regulations for service-related spaces like servicing counters, queuing lines, waiting spaces with permanent seating and maintenance & restoration of public spaces.

Note - Why are we even discussing the ins and outs of the AODA Act? Answer - simply because it sheds light on the fact that some specific laws and guidelines make public spaces more accessible and safer. Discussing the AODA act also justifies the title of the blog! Since AODA is an established and recognized law, thus its guidelines must be followed, eventually making the tactile warning surfaces mandatory for all public spaces.

The Design of Public Spaces Standard is Applied to?

The standard is applicable to all latest spaces and buildings, and it also applies to existing spaces that are undergoing extensive modifications. Existing places that do not require extensive reconstruction, on the other hand, are exempt.

Furthermore, all of these types of space must be accessible to the public sector and private sector organizations with fifty or more employees. Private organizations with less than fifty employees, on the other hand, are merely needed to follow the accessibility rules:

• Trails for recreation and beach access
• Accessible parking
• Service counters, fixed queuing lines, and waiting spaces
• Maintenance and restoration of public spaces

Is The Design of Public Spaces Standard Even Required?

Public spaces are around us. We witness the public space the second we walk out of our homes to go somewhere, whether down the street to chit-chat with a neighbour, to the beach for a fun day with friends, to the grocery shop, parking lot, or the children’s playground. The Design of Public Spaces Standard takes us nearer to an area where all of these excursions are possible for everyone.

Compliance Solutions Canada, a leader in providing Canadian business with compliant workplace solutions since 2008, now introduces a specialized website helping contractors to find the best and most cost-effective code compliant tactile solution for their projects. This new website is named TactileSolution.ca

By making use of our extensive knowledge of code compliance, this specialized site is “Your Source for Code Compliant Solutions”.

Our Mission is to provide our customers with accessibility solutions that meet all current federal and provincial standards. All products offered meet the most rigorous test requirements and comply with AODA, CSA, ISO, FADS and IFC standards to ensure you achieve the highest compliance in your projects.

Our Tactile Solutions are achieved by the most comprehensive offering of tactile walking surface indicators ranging from cast iron and stainless steel to various engineered polymers and an extensive range of photoluminescent (PLM) exit signs, stair nosing’s and exit path marking.

When you need mandatory code compliant accessibility solutions for any project in Canada, look in our featured solutions or call us.

Compliance Solutions Canada offers your facility compliant Ecoglo RM series exit signs that come with a clear anodized aluminum frame and universal mounting kit with the guarantee of the most efficient installation procedure for any location. Our emergency exit signs are rugged, require no electricity, reduce maintenance costs and provide the lowest life cycle cost available for an exit sign. Here at Compliance Solutions Canada, we provide our customers with easy solutions to your facilities everyday regulated (code compliant) product needs.

With Canada’s perpetually growing and diverse population, Ontario legislation introduced new (building codes) regulations for emergency exit signs in which all major and new buildings must comply with (which began January 1st 2014). This shift from the classic red and white exit sign to new green photoluminescent exit signs with a pictograph of a “running man” was driven by our country’s changing demographics and the increasing amount of non-English-speaking immigrants moving into the country.

Compliance Solutions Canada is your source for Ecoglo photoluminescent emergency exit signs. We deliver an easy solution to comply with building regulated emergency exit “running man” signs providing a safer way for all citizens to identify building exits with ease.

Compliance Solutions Canada is your number 1 Ontario provider for Ecoglo photoluminescent exit signs; the favored solution to ensuring your facility is equipped with the safest backup technology in emergency. These code compliant exit signs will illuminate your path after being charged with natural or artificial light, no electricity or batteries required. Additionally, the previously used exit signs were illuminated in red which traditionally represents “stop” or some sort of hazard where the new photoluminescent signs give off electricity and are coloured green to represent (which universally represents) “go” or safety.