Many of us use tunnels daily to cross the channel, navigate through London via the underground or simply get from one place to another.

Safety within these structures is vital; in an emergency situation total darkness could occur rendering escape routes useless if correct signage is not in place.

These complex structures can take years to create, the Channel Tunnel ? one of our most famous transport links was created in 1994 following decades of planning and numerous attempts that ran into difficulties.

Within the Channel Tunnel there are two single track rail tunnels and a third smaller tunnel acting as an emergency exit.

Many aspects must be considered in the case of an emergency within a tunnel, for example, ventilation of smoke in a fire, escape routes to evacuate all within the tunnel, alarms and means to alert individuals of an emergency, maintaining the structure under severe heat or an explosion.

Not only must we consider natural disasters such as severe weather but also terrorist attacks and the most likely to occur ? fires.

Within tunnels transporting vehicles, such as cars and Lorries, petrol and dangerous substances being transported could escalate a situation rapidly. If a tunnel became blocked or a fire occurred would those using it know what to do? Panic in an emergency situation is inevitable making direction and safety procedures paramount.

A Photoluminescent material has been developed by a UK manufacturer, Jalite which illuminates safety signs and provides clear direction conforming to International Standards.

The AAA Photoluminescent materials energise at extremely low levels ensuring the product remains completely conspicuous in total darkness.

Safety signs are nothing new, however since the introduction of the new legislation it is a requirement that organisations safety signs comply with British Standards and remain uniform and conspicuous throughout premises.

A new Photoluminescent sign has been developed specifically for use within tunnels; with highest Photoluminescent quality it remains conspicuous in total darkness. With improved material technology to help ageing and weathering performance the signs are available in rigid PVC and Photoluminescent coated aluminium.

The new signs are designed to be placed at regular intervals inside the tunnel ensuring a sign can be seen from any area once within the tunnel. The signs demonstrate the length in metres and direction to the nearest fire exit enabling those within the tunnel to see the signs and understand their requirements to evacuate.

By displaying the distance and direction to the nearest exit in a clear consistent manner confusion is reduced thus defusing panic.

For further information regarding the new escape route tunnel signs please visit www.jalite.com or call +44 (0)1268 242340.

Safety signs are a requirement within all organisations and premises, understanding which signs are required where is vital to comply to legislation. A Guide to Fire Safety Signs and Signing has recently been launched demonstrating your requirements under the new legislation; we are giving away 50 free copies of the guide to the first 50 individuals to apply.

To apply for your free copy simply email georgie.knight@means-of-escape.com with your name, organisation, address, email and contact number. Quote TUNAAA in the subject line.