Helpful Hints Interior Signs
key information or instructions that will
The following are some general "Do's &
hopefully reduce some common errors
Don'ts guidelines that one can refer to
that are made when working out an
when developing a sign program.
exterior sign program.
This is not intended to be a training
section of the guide, but to provide
Never use text smaller than 3" capital letter height when a sign is installed
General Guidelines
above 84" from the floor.
All tactile room number signs or other tactile room identification signs are
required to meet ADA requirement for height and Braille text.
Signs do require maintenance and periodic cleaning will extend the life
of a sign program.
If overhead signs are used, make sure they have 84 inches of clearance
from the bottom of the sign to the floor.
Signs identifying electrical closets, mechanical rooms and telecommunication
rooms should consist of only the room number which should follow the master
building room numbering system. No descriptive name or title should be used
nor should they have a unique number system.
Message Content
Keep sign messages brief. Unnecessary information will confuse the viewer.
Typically, all signs, with the exception of directional signs, should convey no
more than one name, title, concept or thought.
Use text (words) which are familiar and comfortable to the viewer, and use
the same words throughout the sign program.
On directional and informational signs only provide information necessary
to make a decision at that particular location.
Whenever possible, messages should be presented using positive information.
On directional signs, do not anticipate decisions that can be made later.
Unnecessary or premature information will confuse the reader.
Messages placed on signs should be concise, preferably with no more than
seven to ten words.
Message Layout
Use upper and lower case text whenever possible. Upper and lower case
text is easier to read and is understood faster than text in all capital letters.
Line-spacing between two different messages should be greater than line-
spacing between lines of the same multiple-line message group.
Generally sign text should be a minimum of 1/2" capital letter height.
Text should not be run right up to the edge of the sign.
If a line text needs to be reduced in order to fit on a sign, use only commonly
recognized abbreviations, reduce the number of words or reduce the size of
the type for the entire message. DO NOT condense the type face.
The most important message should appear as the first line text and the most
important directional information should be at the top of the sign.
02/2005
Page 6-3-1
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