Signal colours
The colour coding of safety signals in phosphorescent signage follows specific rules, defined to ensure immediate and unambiguous identification of safety messages. Each colour is associated with a specific function:

• • • Red: used to signal danger, identify firefighting equipment, alarm devices and prohibitions.

    • Green: reserved for information relating to rescue, emergency services and the identification of traffic routes.

    • Blue: used to indicate an obligation to be observed.

    • Yellow/Orange: used for warning signals.

    • Alternating stripes:

- yellow/black for marking obstacles or hazardous areas,
- red/white for indicating areas or elements presenting a particular risk.

For photoluminescent devices, traditional white and yellow are replaced by a phosphorescent yellowish white visible during the day, ensuring optimal visibility in both normal conditions and darkness.

Standardisation of phosphorescent safety signals

The shape and colours of road signs are defined according to their specific function and are harmonised at European level.
Safety pictograms according to EN ISO 7010
In order to ensure universal understanding of signals, regardless of country or language, the ISO 7010 standard was established to harmonise safety pictograms at an international level. The graphics comply with ISO 3864-3, while the shapes and colours comply with the requirements of ISO 3864-1. The NF EN ISO 7010 standard replaced the French NF X 08-003 standard in June 2012 for all pictograms related to accident prevention, firefighting and emergency evacuation. Since 1 January 2014, all signs concerned must comply with this regulation. Signs installed before January 2014 in accordance with standard NF X 08-003 are still considered compliant. However, any subsequent installations must strictly comply with standard ISO 7010. The comprehensive list of regulatory pictograms is available on our website.

Phosphorescent signals

In the manufacture of photoluminescent safety signs, white and yellow colours are replaced by a phosphorescent yellowish white. In total darkness, only the photoluminescent areas remain visible, allowing clear and lasting identification of safety information, even in the absence of lighting.

Pictograms according to EN ISO 7010

Pictograms that comply with the EN ISO 7010 standard ensure clear, consistent and immediately understandable safety signage, regardless of country or language. Pictograms in accordance with EN ISO 7010 are used to indicate hazards, obligations, escape routes and emergency equipment in all workplaces and public establishments. ARCO IRIS products incorporating these pictograms meet European safety requirements and make it easier to identify essential messages in an emergency. Adoption of the ISO 7010 standard ensures that symbols comply with strict criteria for shape, colour and visibility for maximum effectiveness.

Installation and viewing distances

The installation of photoluminescent signs must follow strict rules regarding installation and viewing distances to ensure optimal visibility in the event of an evacuation or power failure. At ARCO IRIS SAS, specialists in photoluminescent signage products, each sign is positioned according to the recommended height and viewing distance so that the symbols remain legible from the points of approach for users. These distances are determined in accordance with the standard applicable to visual safety devices, ensuring that signage is identifiable before a hazard occurs. Strict application of these requirements ensures clear and reliable guidance to exits and emergency equipment.

Arco Iris approved and certified products

The photoluminescent signage solutions offered by ARCO IRIS SAS are designed to meet the most stringent safety requirements. Arco Iris approved and certified products are manufactured in accordance with current European standards, ensuring their reliability in emergency situations. Thanks to high-quality manufacturing and the use of high-performance photoluminescent materials, the panels and strips reflect and restore ambient light, even in the event of a power failure. They are particularly suitable for escape routes, emergency exits and safety equipment signage. Approval guarantees that every ARCO IRIS product offers optimal visibility and durability over time.

Phosphorescent safety equipment
Phosphorescent signage in the workplace (Directive 92/58/EEC)
Phosphorescent evacuation guidance