Download the Tritium Disposal Guide (PDF) 1 Product
Tritium Exit Sign Recycling & Disposal
Proper tritium exit sign disposal is essential for safety and compliance. Self-luminous signs contain radioactive tritium gas and must be processed through an NRC-licensed facility—not thrown in trash or standard recycling bins.
NRC-Licensed EPA & State Compliant Return Kits Full Documentation
We provide nationwide tritium exit sign recycling services for facilities of all sizes. Whether you're disposing of one unit or a large batch, our turnkey solution includes return kits, tracking, and full NRC documentation for legal compliance.
Tritium signs typically last 10, 15, or 20 years. After expiration, federal regulations require that they be returned to an NRC-authorized disposal facility. Improper handling can lead to fines from NRC, EPA, or local agencies.
Our program supports expired tritium signs from any manufacturer—even those not purchased through us. We handle the return labels, manifest documentation, and recycling certification, so you stay compliant without the hassle.
💡 What is tritium?
Tritium is a radioactive hydrogen isotope used to power self-luminous signs. While safe when sealed inside the sign, it must be safely recycled through an NRC-licensed processor at end of life.
Tritium is a radioactive hydrogen isotope used to power self-luminous signs. While safe when sealed inside the sign, it must be safely recycled through an NRC-licensed processor at end of life.
Getting started is easy. Just request the Tritium Exit Sign Disposal Service, and we'll send you an itemized quote with instructions within one business day—including all required paperwork and prepaid return materials.
Looking to replace old signs? Use our Recycle + Replace Discount and get 20% off disposal for each expired sign when purchasing a new exit sign.
💡 Pro Tip: Check expiration dates printed directly on your tritium signs. Plan disposal and replacement at least 60 days in advance to avoid compliance gaps.
Additional Resources
✅ What to Know About Tritium Exit Sign Disposal
- Federal Oversight: Disposal is governed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and cannot be done through normal waste services.
- Expiration Dates: Tritium signs are rated for 10–20 years and include a labeled expiration printed by the manufacturer.
- Hazmat Markings: Look for “self-luminous,” the radiation trefoil symbol, and NRC registration labels.
- Proper Routing: Expired signs must go to a licensed radioactive waste processor or back to the manufacturer—never a landfill.
- Certified Services: Use an NRC-licensed recycler that provides full transport and tracking documentation.
- Multi-Site Management: We support bulk returns, consolidated packaging, and streamlined paperwork for national facility groups.
- Safer Alternatives: Consider photoluminescent exit signs—they require no electricity and no special disposal at end-of-life.
FAQs About Tritium Exit Sign Disposal & Recycling
Why can’t I throw away a tritium exit sign?
Tritium is radioactive and regulated by federal law. Disposal in landfills or trash is illegal and may result in significant environmental fines under NRC and EPA guidelines.
How do I know if my exit sign contains tritium?
Look for labels like “self-luminous,” a radiation trefoil symbol, a valid NRC license number, and an expiration date printed on the sign housing.
What’s the lifespan of a tritium exit sign?
Most tritium signs are rated for 10, 15, or 20 years. After expiration, brightness diminishes and professional recycling becomes mandatory.
How does the disposal process work?
Here’s how it works: Order the service, receive a quote and instructions, ship the signs using return packaging, and receive documentation of NRC-compliant disposal.
Do you accept all brands of tritium signs?
Yes. We accept expired tritium exit signs from any manufacturer—even if you didn’t purchase them from us.
Is your recycling service available nationwide?
Absolutely. Our program covers all 50 U.S. states and includes compliant packaging, shipping materials, and complete documentation for NRC and EPA compliance.