Exit Signs: Traditional "EXIT" vs. International "Running Man"

Exit Signs: Traditional "EXIT" vs. International "Running Man"

Here in the United States, we like to do things a little differently. From our fuel-hungry SUVs to our continued use of the US customary system, we take pride in our unique standards. That includes how we mark emergency exits. While most of the world relies on the internationally recognized "running man" pictogram to indicate the nearest exit, the U.S. continues to use text-based signs that simply read "EXIT."

While traditional EXIT signs are familiar to American audiences, they present a challenge in multilingual environments. In contrast, the "running man" pictogram offers universal understanding—no matter your native language. This is especially helpful in emergencies when panic can cloud judgment and fast, clear visual communication is crucial.

The History of the Running Man

The "running man" was created in the late 1970s by Japanese designer Yukio Ota as part of a national design contest hosted by Japan’s fire safety commission. After 58 iterations adjusting leg position to show a “slow run,” the pictogram was finalized and officially adopted for international use by ISO in 1985.

Yukio Ota – Designer of the Running Man Exit Sign

Red vs. Green: The Psychology of Color in Exit Signs

One major critique of the U.S. EXIT sign is its use of red lettering. In many cultures—and traffic systems—red symbolizes danger, alert, or stop. Green, on the other hand, suggests safety and progress, which is why international exit signs favor green hues. The running man is almost always depicted in white on a green background to subconsciously signal safety and the path forward.

Should the U.S. Adopt the Running Man?

Despite the obvious benefits—language neutrality, intuitive motion design, and safer color cues—the U.S. has been slow to transition to the international standard. For over 25 years, safety experts and designers have debated the merits of switching. But change has been slow, and EXIT text signs remain the standard for most commercial and public buildings.

Will the U.S. eventually make the switch to the "running man" symbol? Maybe. Perhaps around the same time we finally adopt the metric system. Until then, you can browse our collection of UL 924 compliant EXIT signs—from traditional red text to modern green pictograms that bridge the gap between old and new.