Local Law 26 for New York

Because of events like the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center towers in 2001 and an increased need for safe evacuation procedures, New York City passed local law 26 in 2004. As buildings get larger and service more and more people, emergency safety standards must be raised to meet their needs. Also, the likelihood of catastrophic disasters in America’s major cities may be increased because of political threat.

It’s true, modern living creates more convenience, but it also increases the likelihood of accidental emergencies. Local Law 26 for New York addresses regulations for photoluminescent exit signs and lighting systems, providing minimum use guidelines requiring the use of these exit signs and lighting systems in case of an emergency.

Photoluminescent exit signs and lighting systems increase emergency evacuation safety because they can light an area in the absence of electrical power. Even if back-up power sources fail, photoluminescent exit signs and lighting systems can provide evacuation guidance, making them essential for emergency safety.

Local law 26 requires a minimum of photoluminescent lighting to outline egress paths, stairs, handrails, and major obstacles as well as the number and placement of photoluminescent exit signs. It is not required that the photoluminescent signs or lighting systems illuminate the entire area. Instead, they simply need to be placed in such a way as to allow evacuees to find their way out. The law also outlines where the signs and markings should be placed. Exit signs should be placed relatively low to avoid obstruction by smoke.

All photoluminescent signs must meet certain requirements as to their functionality, and each sign or lighting system must be tested to determine whether or not it meets the minimum brightness rating requirements. The signs and lighting systems must also be tested for washability, toxicity, radioactivity, and their likelihood to spread flames. It is important that the photoluminescent signs and lighting systems used meet the highest safety regulations.

New York City is home to many skyscrapers and public buildings, and the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center pointed out issues in emergency safety. Requiring photoluminescent emergency lighting is one step toward building safer public buildings for the thousands of people who work in and visit them everyday. Other cities are also now requiring photoluminescent lighting and sign systems, illustrating how much more safe buildings can be when these systems are in use.