What Are the Dangers of Neon Signs?

TL;DR;

Neon signs can pose safety hazards such as electric shock, fire risks, mercury exposure, and injuries from shattered glass. With proper installation, maintenance, and awareness, many of these dangers can be avoided — but they are still essential considerations for any business or home.

The Rise (and Glow) of Neon Signs

Neon signs have long been a beacon of nightlife, commercial advertising, and vintage charm.

• Invented by Georges Claude in 1910, neon lights gained popularity during the Art Deco era.
  
• These signs became cultural icons across diners, bars, movie theaters, and roadside attractions.
  
• Today, neon still thrives in commercial branding and home decor despite the rise of LED alternatives.
  
  

Where are neon signs used?

• Restaurants and hospitality venues
  
• Retail storefronts
  
• Event signage and decorative home installations
  
• Artistic displays and exhibitions
  
  

The popularity of neon lighting owes much to its aesthetic appeal — but there’s more beneath the glow.

How Neon Signs Work (And Why That Matters)

Understanding how neon signs function reveals why they can be risky.

• Gas discharge tubes filled with noble gases like neon, argon, or mercury vapor
  
• An electrical current runs through the gas, causing it to emit colored light
  
• High voltage transformers (up to 15,000 volts) are required to energize the gas
  
• An electrical ballast regulates current to prevent overheating
  
  

Each component plays a role — and each introduces a potential hazard if not properly managed.

Main Dangers of Neon Signs

Electrical Hazards and Shock Risk

Can you get shocked by a neon sign? Yes.

• Neon signs operate with high-voltage wiring which can pose a serious shock risk
  
• Inadequate grounding, circuit overload, or damaged insulation increase the danger
  
• Neon transformer safety is crucial — older or improperly installed units are common culprits
  
  

Do neon signs get hot?

Yes. They can reach internal temperatures of over 200°F. Touching exposed tubes or transformers can cause burns or injury.

Protective measures:

• Always use UL-rated transformers
  
• Ensure proper enclosure to prevent contact
  
• Install GFCI outlets to minimize electric shock risk

Fire Risks

Can neon signs catch fire? Absolutely, if neglected.

• Overheated glass tubes or failing electrical insulation can ignite nearby materials
  
• Signs mounted on flammable surfaces such as wood paneling or paper are especially hazardous
  
  

Key concerns:

• Poor wiring or NFPA code violations
  
• No clearance between the sign and combustible materials
  
• Signs installed in humid or poorly ventilated areas
  
  

Fire prevention tips:

• Follow NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) guidelines
  
• Use non-flammable mounting surfaces
  
• Schedule routine inspections

Toxic Gas Exposure (Especially from Mercury)

Are neon signs toxic when broken? Yes, particularly older models containing mercury.

• Mercury vapor (used for blue and green colors) is a potent neurotoxin
  
• Breakage can release dangerous gas, especially in non-ventilated areas
  
  

Exposure risks:

• Vapor inhalation can cause neurological damage
  
• Glass cleanup may result in skin contact or further exposure
  
  

Safe handling practices:

• Evacuate and ventilate the area immediately
  
• Contact hazardous waste professionals for cleanup
  
• Switch to mercury-free alternatives

Glass Tube Breakage and Physical Injuries

Is a broken neon sign dangerous? Very.

• Glass tubes are fragile and shatter into sharp shards
  
• Breakage can occur during cleaning, transport, or if the sign falls
  
  

Physical dangers:

• Lacerations and puncture wounds
  
• Risk of contact with live wires or mercury
  
  

Safety tips:

• Use protective casings
  
• Secure signage with impact-resistant mounts
  
• Train staff on handling and emergency response

Misconceptions About Neon Sign Safety

“Neon Signs Cause Cancer”

No verified studies confirm that neon signs cause cancer. The myth often stems from confusion over mercury vapor, which is harmful — but not linked to cancer in neon applications.

“All Neon Signs Use Mercury”

Not true. Traditional red and orange signs use pure neon, while blue and green shades may involve mercury.

“LED Signs Are 100% Safe”

While safer, LED signs still involve electrical circuitry and can pose overheating or shock risks if poorly installed.

Clarification is key. Misinformation can lead to poor choices — and unsafe conditions.

Maintenance & Safety Best Practices

How to maintain a neon sign safely:

• Turn off the sign and unplug before cleaning
  
• Use a soft, dry cloth or compressed air
  
• Avoid moisture near the electrical components
  
  

When to replace parts:

• Flickering or dim sections
  
• Cracked tubes or visible corrosion
  
• Buzzing sounds from the transformer
  
  

Essential best practices:

• Hire a certified electrician
  
• Keep a maintenance checklist
  
• Use only UL-rated components
  

Neon Signs vs LED: A Safety Showdown

Here’s how traditional neon compares to LED neon from a safety standpoint:

LED neon signs offer lower risk, lower cost, and longer lifespan — making them ideal for many modern businesses.

Legal Regulations, Certifications, and Building Codes

UL-listed neon signs meet national safety standards. Always verify this before purchase.

Code considerations:

• Follow local building codes
  
• Differentiate between indoor and outdoor sign compliance
  
• Check requirements from ANSI, OSHA, and local zoning authorities
  
  

Compliance protects your business from liability and fines.

Environmental Impact of Neon Sign Disposal

How do you dispose of neon signs?

• Neon signs are considered e-waste
  
• Mercury-containing tubes must be treated as hazardous waste
  
• Never discard in regular trash
  
  

Eco-friendly disposal options:

• Use certified neon recycling centers
  
• Consider donation for parts
  
• Transition to green business signage using LED or solar options
  
  

Minimize harm to the environment — and your brand’s reputation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Neon Sign Safety

Are neon signs dangerous to pets or children?

Yes — if within reach. Children and pets can get burned or cut by broken glass. Mount signs high and securely.

Can neon signs cause cancer?

No scientific evidence supports this claim. Concerns typically relate to mercury exposure, not cancer.

How long do neon signs last before becoming unsafe?

Average lifespan: 8–15 years

Maintenance and usage frequency heavily influence longevity

What should I do if my neon sign breaks?

Turn off power immediately

Ventilate the area

Contact hazardous material professionals if mercury was present

Is It Worth Having a Neon Sign Today?

Neon signs offer unmatched aesthetic appeal, but their risks are real:

• Electric shock, fire hazards, toxic exposure, and breakage are all legitimate concerns
  
• With modern LED options available, many businesses are choosing safer, greener alternatives
  
  

At Horizon Sign and Lighting, we help businesses navigate the world of signage safely and stylishly.

Looking for a vibrant sign without the risk? Horizon Sign and Lighting can help you choose between LED or neon signs based on your goals, style preferences, and safety needs — including certified LED neon options that mimic the look of classic neon without the hazards.