What Is PVC Signage?

PVC signage refers to signs made from Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), a widely used plastic known for its versatility and low cost. Due to its affordability, PVC has been commonly used in safety signage across various industries, including maritime environments. However, there are growing concerns about the safety and environmental impact of using PVC in signage, particularly in safety-critical applications.

Why Should PVC Not Be Used in Safety Signage?

The entire PVC lifecycle—from production to disposal—releases toxic chlorine-based chemicals into the environment. These substances accumulate in the air, water, and food chain, posing serious health risks.

Additionally, while PVC is flame-resistant, it releases highly toxic hydrogen chloride gas when exposed to fire. In a maritime emergency, this gas can spread faster than flames, endangering firefighters, crew, and passengers before they can reach safety. Hydrogen chloride gas is extremely corrosive and lethal when inhaled, making PVC signage a significant safety hazard in enclosed environments like ships.

SOLAS Regulations Discourage PVC Use

The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) emphasizes the importance of using materials with:

• Low fire propagation
• Minimal smoke emissions
• No halogens

SOLAS Chapter II-2 specifically aims to reduce the risks of fires and smoke toxicity, ensuring that safety signage does not contribute to hazardous conditions during a fire. Certain materials, such as PVC, release highly toxic fumes when burned, making them unsuitable for use on ships.

Although PVC is still permitted in some cases, the maritime industry is increasingly transitioning to Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSOH) materials, such as PETX, which provide safer, non-toxic alternatives.

The Shipping Industry Is Moving Away from PVC

The maritime sector is gradually phasing out halogen-containing materials, including PVC, to support environmental goals and improve fire safety. While PVC-free alternatives may seem like a small change, they play a crucial role in reducing overall emissions and improving onboard safety.

Studies of shipboard fires have shown that engine room fires are the most common, with additional risks in cargo spaces and crew areas. Using halogen-free signage materials significantly reduces the dangers of smoke inhalation, toxic exposure, and corrosion.

When PVC burns, it releases hydrochloric acid vapor, which is highly corrosive and damaging to electronic systems. PETX signage, on the other hand, emits significantly lower levels of toxic gases, reducing health risks and equipment damage in the event of a fire.

To enhance safety at sea, the industry has embraced halogen-free, low-smoke, non-toxic materials, such as PETX signs and low-location lighting systems. This transition, pioneered by SafeSign in partnership with DNV since 2010, is a crucial step in improving fire safety regulations and emergency preparedness.

Everything You Need to Know About PETX Signage

PETX (Polyethylene Terephthalate X) is a high-performance, recyclable plastic known for its strength, clarity, and durability. Unlike PVC, PETX is:

• Free from halogens, reducing the risk of toxic fume emissions.
• UV-resistant, ensuring that signage does not discolor or degrade over time.
• Fully recyclable, making it an eco-friendly alternative to traditional PVC signage.

SafeSign was a pioneer in the signage industry, replacing PVC with PETX to comply with stricter environmental and safety regulations. Unlike PVC, which yellows and deteriorates, SafeSign PETX signage comes with a 5-year warranty, even for outdoor use.

Advantages of PETX Signage Over PVC Signage

PETX signage provides significant benefits over PVC, particularly in terms of:

• Fire Safety: PETX signage emits significantly lower levels of toxic smoke and gases, reducing the risk of poisoning in fire situations.
• Regulatory Compliance: meets SOLAS Chapter II-2 fire safety standards, unlike PVC, which is increasingly restricted.
• Environmental Sustainability: PETX is fully recyclable, whereas PVC disposal releases hazardous chemicals.
• Durability: PETX signage does not fade, yellow, or deteriorate, maintaining long-term visibility.

Photoluminescent PETX Signs

SafeSign’s photoluminescent PETX signs absorb energy from ambient light and emit a glow in darkness, ensuring visibility during power failures. The brightness and duration of this glow depend on the grade and thickness of the pigment.

SafeSign only uses premium-grade photoluminescent materials, exceeding DNV-certified glow properties, ensuring compliance with IMO and maritime safety standards.

Let’s Get in Touch!

Are you interested in SafeSign’s PVC-free safety signs, or would you like to become a dealer? Contact us today to learn more about our innovative, sustainable, and fire-safe signage solutions!