Is Neon Safe? Separating Fact from Fiction About Neon Lighting

There is much confusion about whether or not real neon poses a threat to human safety. Such concerns include the supposed toxicity of the gas within neon tubes, the fear of electrocution from high voltage electricity or that neon tubes reach unsafe temperatures and will burn you if touched.
These concerns, while very valid, actually often stem from confusion between neon and other lighting types.
When professionally manufactured and installed, real neon is actually a remarkably safe and stable option
This post will cover how neon works, what risks actually exist and how to use neon safely

Understanding the Basics of Neon Lighting Safety

A neon tube is a glass tube filled with inert gases. These tubes are completely sealed so nothing inside them can escape.
Neon signs operate at very high voltage (typically 2000 - 15000 volts) but very low current (20 - 60 milliamps). Neon transformers are designed specifically to supply neon with a lot of voltage while significantly limiting the current.
This low current, high voltage setup is what allows neon to run safely without overheating.
Real neon has been used safely for over a century in homes, businesses and public spaces.

Myth: Neon is radioactive or toxic
Fact: Neon gas is inert and harmless, as is argon.
Myth: Neon gets dangerously hot
Fact: Neon tubes are warm to the touch - not hot. The hottest they will get is about 60°C. In comparison, incandescent bulbs can reach 250°C and halogen bulbs can reach 500°C.
Myth: Neon signs explode or catch fire
Fact: Neon tubes are sealed and non-flammable; proper wiring prevents electrical hazards.

The only instance in which neon can be unsafe is when it has been handled and/or installed by someone not qualified.
Such cases may involve: an overloaded or underloaded transformer, exposed wiring or neon mounted in such a way that it's structure is under stress
It is extremely important when sourcing a power supply for your neon that the transformer is made for REAL neon and not for an LED "neon" sign.
These kinds of situations are more common than you would think. That's why its very important to have an experienced neon technician conduct repairs and installations.

An experienced glass bender will bend a neon tube in such a way that it retains as much of its structural integrity as possible.
Neon signs are mounted securely as to prevent falls while ensuring that the glass is under minimal stress as to prevent breakage
All neon signs are fitted with an OCM (open circuit monitor) that prevents the sign from drawing power the moment something malfunctions or breaks
Neon signs that are mounted in high traffic areas or positions that a human can reach will most often be installed within a protective acrylic box to prevent contact or tampering.

Is the gas inside neon tubes dangerous if broken?
No - the gas dissipates instantly and poses no health risk.
Are neon signs safe around children or pets?
Yes, as long as they are mounted out of their reach or installed inside a protective box.
What happens if a neon sign breaks?
It will simply stop glowing and the open circuit monitor (OCM) will prevent it from drawing power.
Can neon signs cause electrical fires?
Very unlikely as long as it is installed correctly with reliable componentry.

Neon lighting is a safe, long-lasting and low-risk lighting option.
For peace of mind, always work with a qualified neon specialist when handling, repairing or mounting a neon sign
Want expert advice or a safety check on your neon lighting? Contact Melbourne's most trusted neon specialists at Australian Neon Services today.