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Tritium Disposal Service

Tritium Exit Sign Disposal (Step-by-Step Guide)

How to recycle or retire self-luminous exit signs safely and in compliance — with a simple 4-step process you can hand to your team.

Replace with Self-Luminous Exit Signs Complete Tritium Guide

Last updated: October 2025

Educational Guide UL 924 • Owner Duties • NRC/EPA For Facility Managers & Safety Officers

Why Disposal Matters

Tritium (self-luminous) exit signs are owned under a general license. When they reach end-of-life—or if one is damaged—you must retire them through a licensed facility. Proper disposal protects people and property, keeps your records clean for inspections, and avoids fines for improper handling.

Disposal at a glance (4 steps)
  1. Identify — locate model/serial and update your inventory.
  2. Label — use the recycler’s kit and labeling. (emailed instructions)
  3. Ship — return to a licensed facility via provided carrier.
  4. Document — save chain-of-custody; close out inventory.

How to Dispose of Tritium Exit Signs

Never landfill or scrap a tritium sign. Use a licensed recycler or return program. Here’s the standard workflow:

1) Identify

  • Confirm model and serial numbers; note install location and date.
  • Mark units as expired or damaged in your inventory.

2) Labeling

  • Following instructions for labeling package (sent via email)

3) Ship

  • Book the approved carrier and keep tracking details.
  • Include any required forms provided by the recycler.

4) Document

  • Save the chain-of-custody and recycler receipt.
  • Update your inventory to close out each serial number.

Need a printable checklist? See the Tritium Compliance Handbook for owner duties and recordkeeping. For background on how the signs work and where they fit, read the Tritium Exit Signs – Complete Guide.

If a sign is broken:
  • Clear the area and restrict access.
  • Notify your radiation-safety contact and building management.
  • Arrange licensed disposal and file any required incident reports.

When Does Disposal Apply?

  • End-of-life: 10-year or 20-year rated unit has reached service life.
  • Damage: cracked housing/tubes, compromised labels, or vandalism.
  • Decommission: building changes or spec upgrades remove the sign.

FAQs

Can I throw away an expired tritium exit sign?

No. Don’t landfill or scrap it. Return the sign to a licensed facility or certified recycler.

Can I ship tritium signs myself?

Yes—for disposal via licensed providers. Follow the recycler’s packaging and paperwork instructions, then keep your chain-of-custody.

Do I need to tell anyone when I dispose of a sign?

Keep inventory up to date and follow your recycler’s/regulator’s reporting requirements. The Compliance Handbook includes a quick owner checklist.