Iconic Representation

I read an article recently about Emergency Exit signs in America in contrast to the rest of the world. As it turns out, America is the only country that uses the red EXIT signs above doors and in hallways. The rest of the world uses a green sign with a figure running for the door. American’s use the red EXIT sign saying that the signs are clear and bold. The red is used to represent the urgency. Countries who use the alternative sign say that the American signs have big faults: they say that the people who do not read English would not be able to read the sign, and that the red is signals danger and caution. In comparison, the other sign is green and represents safety. Its image is understandable to everyone no matter what language you speak.
It wasn’t until I read this article that I realized the flaws of the American Exit sign. You would assume that something as important as an Exit sign should be better designed. From what I can see the sign the rest of the world uses is better. Especially considering the different cultures that are in this country, it isn’t fair to assume that everyone should be able to understand our Exit sign. Especially considering the signs they are accustom to. I think the responsible thing to do would be to incorporate the green sign and eventually push out the typical red Exit sign all together.