“Do not use lifts if there is a fire” Contrasting Signs for Passenger Lift Landings
The National Construction Code, Building Code of Australia Volume One, requires lift landings to be provided with warning signs to prevent occupants from using a passenger lift during a fire. Each sign must be readily visible near every lift landing call button, as per Clause E3D4(3).
The rationale for this is to ensure occupant safety. There are dangers in using a passenger lift during a fire: lift buttons may malfunction, the lift shaft may fill with smoke, the lift may stop between levels, or the lift doors may open directly into an area engulfed with flames.
The proposed changes to Clause E3D4(3) in 2025 will require warning signs near lift call buttons to have lettering with contrasting colours to the background to ensure clear visibility. The lettering must be incised, inlaid, or embossed on a securely fixed plate made of metal, wood, plastic, or similar material or directly attached to the wall surface to ensure visibility. However, as stated in Clause E3D4(2), this requirement does not apply to small lifts used exclusively for transporting goods, such as dumbwaiters, as they are not intended for passenger use and do not require emergency warning signage.
To confirm a contrasting colour is achieved, we recommend the luminance reflective value, or LRV, or the sign backing plate has at least a 30% luminance contrast to the LRV of the lettering. Most signage companies will understand these requirements and can meet this minimum contrast.
However, if you are unsure how a contrasting colour can be achieved, please contact our office. Please call LumiLab on 1300142841 to discuss your luminance contrast testing needs.