Tritium Self Luminous Exit Signs Requirements 

When distributing Self-Luminous Exit Signs we are required by the Federal Law to provide the following information in regards to the company that will have the product installed: Name of Company Full Address City, State, Zip Phone Number of Facility Contact Person at Facility Please enter this information in ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS box to ensure timely delivery of your product. (The exits signs cannot be shipped until we have this required information).

What Are Tritium Self Luminous Exit Signs?

Tritium exit signs are completely non electrical. A short definition of tritium is an isotope of hydrogen. Tritium exit signs illuminate by the way of excited electrons inside sealed phosphor tubes. Tritium emits electrons through beta decay and when they interact with a phosphor materials, fluorescent light is created, This whole process is called radioluminescence. These exits signs are often called power free exit signs, non electrical exit signs, self luminous, nuclear or radioactive exit signs. They are perfect for locations where power is not accessible. Many movie theaters and churches use these in there facility. Non electrical exit signs are both reliable and durable. Tritium self luminous exit signs are weather proof and wet location rated. Click Tritium Exit Signs for more details

Are Tritium Exit Signs Safe?

Yes tritium exit signs are safe. The tubes are mounted in a high impact shock resistance plastic. However if a tube is broken or damaged this type of radiation cannot penetrate a sheet of paper or clothing. If inhaled, it leaves the body relatively quickly. Tritium gas is odorless, colorless and tasteless, and is lighter than air. In short it becomes a vapor.

Benefits of Tritium

• No wiring needed
• No electricity cost
• Easy installation Universal Mount
• Field Adjustable Directional Arrows 
• Single Face and Double Face
• Maintenance free
• Operating Temperature - 76°F TO +212°F
• Waterproof - Outdoor Exterior Rated 
• Explosion Proof

Are Tritium Exit Signs Code Compliant?

Yes. They meet all codes an regulations. Our Tritium Exit Signs are UL listed and meet the requirements of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Life Safety Code 101. NFPA 101 is the most comprehensive code addressing safety to life from fire and similar emergencies in both new and existing buildings. They exceed the minimum lambert required by UL. Since they are non electrical there is no ON or Off switch. When the ambient lighting in a building is On, you will not see the tritium illuminate, however the required contrast ratio of the stencil color RED, Green Or Black makes the exit sign visible from a minimum of 100 foot viewing distance. If the power has turned off the sign becomes very truly apparent.

Tritium Self-Luminous Exit Signs – FAQ

What is a tritium exit sign?

A tritium exit sign is a self-luminous exit sign that doesn’t need electricity or batteries to work. Instead of wiring, it uses tiny sealed tubes filled with tritium gas that glow continuously—24/7—for years.

How do tritium exit signs work?

Inside the sign are glass tubes coated with phosphor and filled with tritium gas. The gas naturally emits low-level radiation that reacts with the phosphor coating, creating a steady glow.

No wiring. No bulbs. No charging.
It just works—day and night.

Do tritium exit signs need power or maintenance?

Nope—that’s the biggest advantage.

• ❌ No electricity required
• ❌ No batteries to replace
• ❌ No routine maintenance

Once installed, they’re essentially set-it-and-forget-it for years.

How long do tritium exit signs last?

Most tritium exit signs are rated for:

• 10 years
• 15 years
• 20+ years

Over time, the brightness slowly fades as the tritium decays, but they remain visible and compliant throughout their rated lifespan.

Are tritium exit signs UL listed and code compliant?

Yes, most models are:

• UL 924 listed
• Meet local and national life safety codes

They’re commonly approved for use in places where traditional powered exit signs may not be practical.

Where are tritium exit signs typically used?

They’re ideal for locations where power is unreliable or unavailable, such as:

• Industrial facilities
• Stairwells and remote corridors
• Parking garages
• Outdoor or wet locations
• Hazardous or explosion-prone areas

Basically—anywhere you want reliable exit visibility without wiring.

Are tritium exit signs good for wet or outdoor locations?

Yes. Many models are designed for wet location use and perform well in extreme temperatures.

Since they don’t rely on electricity, they’re a great solution for harsh environments.

Do tritium exit signs ever need to be replaced?

10 or 20 years depending on the model 

Once the rated lifespan (10–20 years) is up, the sign should be replaced because the brightness will no longer meet code requirements.

How Do You Dispose Of Tritium Exit Signs? Can I throw away a tritium exit sign when it’s done?

No—these signs must be properly disposed of or recycled.

Because they contain radioactive material (even at low levels), disposal is regulated. Most manufacturers offer a take-back or recycling program, and Exit Sign Warehouse can help guide you through the process.

The manufacturer will properly dispose of expired tritium exit signs. Tritium exit signs have a half life of 10 or 20 years All tritium exit signs have an expiration tag attached to the sign. Email info@exitsignwarehouse.com for information.