Installation
Interior Signs
The installation of interior signs requires coordination of several interlaced criteria.
Interior signs, especially directional signs, require coordination and careful
consideration of the following:
Criteria
Location of building entrances and elevators.
Configuration of the corridor system.
Desired path of travel within the building for visitors, patients and employees.
Location of departments and clinics.
A simple clear room numbering system that follows a clear,
understandable pattern.
Adequate light on and around directional signs.
Placement of signs in locations where people are expecting them to be.
Visibility These elements help establish the basis of a clear sign program that
communicates and informs in a direct and simple manner.
Interior signs function to communicate to both patients and visitors as well a staff.
Their placements need to be planned relative to the intended viewer, particularly
directional signs. Sign visibility to the intended user is a principal objective that is
the basis of correct sign placement.
Placement Proper sign placement is part of a well-planned interior sign program.
In order to meet ADA guidelines, tactile room number signs must now always
be specifically placed on the wall, on the strike/knob side of the door. Ceiling
mounted signs require larger lettering size so only short selective message can be
communicated. Interior directional signs are intended to communicate directions
to visitors and patients and their placement needs to be planned relative to the
intended viewer. Sign visibility to the user is a principal objective that is the basis
of correct sign placement.
Correct placement of signs will usually mean that fewer signs are required. Too
many signs can create a cluttered appearance and increase the difficulty for a
viewer to find the particular information they are seeking. Placement of signs
where there is sufficient lighting is critical. Care also needs to be taken to place
signs in a manner that allow clear viewing.
Colors need to be considered as well, as this has an effect the visibility of signs.
Putting directional signs in a color that is different from room identification signs
can be helpful to patients and visitors.
Planning A sign program for a building, that works well, is one that has been planned as
an integrated whole. All the way from the main entrance sign, to directional signs,
room identification signs, informational signs, code required signs and life safety
signs.
Page 6- 8-1
02/2005
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