Aiding escape
November 1st 2004

A directional sounder has been introduced by Klaxon Signals to reduce the confusion often experienced by those evacuating a building, and thereby increase their chances of survival.

Featuring broadband sound technology, the E-Z-Exit allows building occupants to locate instantly their nearest exit during an emergency.

The device emits pulses of broadband sound whose frequency increases as evacuees get nearer to the exit. Rising or falling tones indicate whether an evacuation route leads up or down.

Trials involving visually- and hearing-impaired subjects showed that use of the device reduced evacuation times from a smokefilled environment by as much as 75% compared to trials with no directional units (but still using mandatory emergency signage).

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