SolaMaster® 750 Tubular Daylighting Device for Storm Shelters and Safe Rooms

The Solatube SolaMaster® 750 DS Tubular Daylighting Device (TDD) is revolutionizing how architects integrate natural daylight into storm shelters. After rigorous evaluation by the ICC Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) in 2019, the SolaMaster® 750 DS became the first and only rooftop daylighting device in the world to achieve compliance with ICC 500 and FEMA P-361 standards for tornado and hurricane storm shelters – even in EF 5 and CAT 5 conditions. It faired so well in the testing that additional costly and bulky penetration protection is not required with the system, offering an affordable solution for schools, community centers and other facilities. With an average of 1,200 tornadoes striking the U.S. annually, this groundbreaking achievement sets a new standard for safety and performance in storm-resistant design. Whether installed in open-ceiling spaces like gyms or large atriums or closed-ceiling environments such as classrooms and offices, it provides natural daylight while the shelter doubles as a secure refuge during severe weather. This dual functionality ensures that occupants benefit from the health and wellness benefits of daily daylight exposure such as enhanced mood, improved cognitive abilities, and increased productivity – while having peace of mind during emergencies. Studies by the Heschong Mahone Group and the University of Oregon highlight the value of daylighting in shared spaces. Daylit environments have been shown to increase student test scores by up to 26% and reduce absenteeism. A study by Dr. Alan Hedge at Cornell University also found that workers in daylit office environments reported a 51% drop in the incidence of eyestrain, a 63% drop in headaches and a 56% reduction in drowsiness. The Solatube SolaMaster® 750 DS is transforming storm shelters into multifunctional spaces that enhance safety, wellness and sustainability, demonstrating Solatube International's commitment to innovation and positive social impact.